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By  the  terms  of  his  will,  dated  January  29, 1839,  William  Maclure, 
of  New  Harmony,  Indiana,  bequeathed  $72,000  for  the  establishment 
of  Workingmen's  libraries  in  Indiana.  The  money  was  not  distrib- 
uted until  1855,  owing  to  litigation  involving  the  Maclure  estate,  at 
which  time  144  libraries  were  established  in  eighty-nine  of  the 
ninety-two  counties  of  the  State. 


Municipal   and   Institutional 


Libraries 


of 


Indiana, 


HISTORY,  CONDITION    AND    MANAGEMENT. 


CX>AlI»rLEr>    BY 


XTISTDER    THE  I>IllECTION    OE 

THE  LOUISIANA  PURCHASE  EXPOSITION 
COMMISSION  OF  INDIANA, 

1004. 


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SCHOOL 


TABLE  OF  CONTENTS. 

Page. 

Alexandria  Public  Library 5 

Anderson — Public  Library  of  Anderson 7 

Angola— Sorosis   Library 9 

Attica  Public  Library 10 

Aurora  Public  Library ^ 12 

Bedford  Public  Library T 14 

Bloomington— Indiana  University  Library 18 

Bloomington— Monroe  County  and  Public  School  Library 20 

Bluffton  Public  Library 22 

Borden  Institute  Library  23 

Brazil  Public  Library 24 

Butler  College  Library,  see  Irvington. 

Cannelton  Public  Library 27 

Carthage— Henry  Henley  Library 29 

Central  Normal  College  Library,  see  Danville. 

Charlestown  Public  Library 30 

Columbus  Public  Library 31 

Connersville  Public  Library 32 

Crawfordsville— Wabash  College  Library 85 

Crawfordsville  Public  Library 33 

Danville — Library  of  Central  Normal  College 36 

Danville  PubHc  Library 37 

Delphi  Public  Library 38 

DePauw  University  Library,  see  Greencastle, 
Earlham  College  Library,  see  Richmond. 

Elkhart— Carnegie  Library 39 

Elwood  Public  Library 40 

Evansville— Willard  Library 42 

Fort  Wayne — Free  Public  Library 43 

Frankfort  Public   Library  45 

Franklin  College  Library 47 

Goshen  Public  Library 49 

Greencastle — DePauv/  University  Library 50 

Greencastle  Carnegie  Library  52 

Greenfield  Public   Library 54 

Greensburg  Public  Library 55 

Hammond  PubHc   Library 55 

Hanover  College  Library 56 

Hartford  City  Public  Library 57 

Huntington — City  Free  Library 58 

Indiana  Library  Association 59 

Indiana  State  Library,  see  Indianapolis. 

Indiana  State  Normal  School  Library,    see  Terre  Haute. 

Indiana  University  Library,   see  Bloomington. 

Indianapolis — Indiana  State  Library 63 

Indianapolis — Public  Library  Commission 73 

Indianapolis  Public  Library 77 

Irvington — Bona  Thompson  Memorial  Library  of  Butler  College 80 

Jeffersonville  Township  Public  Library 83 

Kokomo  PubHc  Library 85 

Lafayette — Purdue  University  Library 89 

Lafayette  Public  Library 87 

Laporte  Public  Library 90 

Lebanon  Public  Library 92 

Logansport  Public  Library 93 

Madison  Public  Library 95 

Marion   Public  Library 95 


H 


Markle   Library 98 

Michigan  City  Public  Library 99 

Monticello   Public  Library 102 

Moore's  Hill  College  Library 103 

Morrison-Reeves  Library,  see  Richmond. 

Mount  Vernon — Alexandrian  Library 103 

Muncie  Public  Library 104 

New  Albany   Public  Library 108 

Newcastle   Public  Library 109 

New  Harmony— Workingmen's  Institute  Library Ill 

Noblesville  Public  Library 114 

Notre  Dame— Lemmonier  Library  of  the  University  of  Notre  Dame.  115 

Orland— Joyce  Public  Library 117 

Peru  Public  Library 117 

Plainfield  Public  Library ,   119 

Portland — Carnegie  Free  Library 121 

Posey ville— Public  Library  of  Poseyville 122 

Public  Library  Commission,  see  Indianapolis. 
Purdue  University  Library,    see  Lafayette. 

Rensselasr  Public  Library 123 

Richmond— Ear Iham   College  Library 125 

Richmond— Morrison-Reeves   Library 127 

Rising  Sun— Mahlon  Brown  Library 128 

Rose  Polytechnic  Institute  Library,  see  Terre  Haute. 

St.  Meinrad— St.  Anselm's  Abbey  Library 129 

Salem  Public  Library 132 

Seymour  Public  Library 133 

Shelbyville— Carnegie  PubHc  Library 134 

South  Bend-Pubhc  Library 136 

Spiceland  Academy  Library 138 

Sullivan— Carnegie  Library 139 

Terre  Haute — Indiana  State  Normal  School  Library 140 

Terre  Haute — Library  of  Rose  Polytechnic  Institute 144 

Terre  Haute  Public  Library ■. 145 

Tipton  Public  Library 147 

Union  City  Public  Library 149 

Valparaiso  College  Library 152 

Vincennes  Public  Library 153 

Wabash — Carnegie  Library 157 

Wabash  College  Library,  see  Crawfordsville. 

Warsaw   Public  Library 159 

Washington— Carnegie  Public  Library 160 

Westfield  Public  Library 161 

Willard  Library,  see  Evansville. 

Workingmen's  Institute  Library,  see  New  Harmony. 

Zionsville  Public  Library , 162 


PREFi^CE. 


Eleven  years  ago  Mr.  Jacob  P.  Dunn  prepared  for  the  Columbian 
Exposition,  a  monograph  on  the  libraries  of  Indiana,  in  which  he  ade- 
quately treated  the  yarious  library  movements  within  the  State  up  to 
that  time.  It  seems  now  more  desirable,  in  the  light  of  the  recent 
growth  of  individual  libraries  under  the  new  impulses  to  permit 
each  library  to  present  its  own  history  and  working  condition  rather 
than  to  present  the  general  history  and  thereby  duplicate  the  work  of  Mr. 
Dunn  without  the  hope  of  doing  it  so  well. 

We  had  hoped  that  we  might  have  a  brief  sketch  of  each  municipal 
and  institutional  library  in  the  State  for  the  sake  of  completeness  of  a 
record  that  is  to  be  placed  in  permanent  form  and  to  become  a  part  of 
the  library  history  of  the  State,  but  a  few  libraries  chose  to  remain  unre- 
corded, after  being  repeatedly  urged.  We  greatly  regret  this  fact.  We 
wish,  however,  to  most  sincerely  thank  all  who  so  generously  aided  in 
the  collection  and  preparation  of  the  material  here  presented. 

W.  E.  Henry,  March  1,  1904. 


Between  January  1,  1901,  and  March  1,  1904,  Andrew  Carnegie 
gave  $872,000  for  the  erection  and  equipment  of  library  buildings  in 
Indiana,  in  thirty-nine  cities  situated  in  thirty-six  of  the  ninety-two 
counties  of  the  State. 


Indiana   Libraries, 
1904. 


INDIANA  LIBR 


ALEXANDRIA. 
Alexandria  Public  Lirrary. 

The  movement  for  a  public  library  in  Alexandria  was  started  in  1895 
by  Mr.  I.  V.  Busby,  who  was  then  superintendent  of  the  city's  schools. 
The  city  council  co-operated  cordially  and  a  tax  levy  was  made  by  that 
body  for  the  establishment  and  administration  of  the  library.  The 
administrative  body  was  organized  under  the  library  law  of  1850,  and 
began  its  work  very  modestly  with  but  fifty-five  bound  volumes  on  its 
shelves  and  with  but  few  periodicals.  The  first  librarian  was  Miss  Edna 
Erlick,  and  during  succeeding  years  and  amid  trying  events  the  work  has 
been,  for  terms  of  various  lengths,  in  charge  of  the  following  Hbrarians : 
Effie  Bertsche  and  Daisy  Lindsey. 

In  November,  1901,  the  necessary  appointments  were  made  for  the 
reorganization  of  the  Library  and  its  Board  of  Directors  under  the  law  of 
1901.  The  Rev.  J.  Challen  Smith  was  largely  instrumental  in  bringing 
about  this  reorganization  and  he  became  the  first  president  of  the  new 
Board,  which  is  officially  entitled  The  Public  Library  Board  of  the  City  of 
Alexandria,  Indiana.  Mr.  Smith  continued  in  the  capacity  of  president 
for  two  years  and  until  his  removal  to  San  Jose,  California,  where  he  now 
resides. 

The  year  after  the  reorganization  Mr.  Smith  began  a  correspondence 
with  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie,  which  resulted  in  bringing  from  that  world's 
benefactor  a  gift  of  $12,000.00.  This  sum  was  subsequently  increased  to 
$14,000.00,  and  the  whole  has  been  expended  in  the  erection  and  equip- 
ment of  an  excellent  library  building  admirably  adapted  to  the  purposes 
for  which  it  is  intended.  The  Library  now  contains  2,069  volumes,  of 
which  275  were  added  within  the  year  1903.  The  total  circulation  for 
the  year  gave  an  average  of  seventy-five  loans  per  day.  The  city 
has  a  population  of  10,000  and  there  is  now  a  list  of  1,221  borrow- 
ers. Twenty-two  periodicals  are  regularly  received.  Since  January  1, 
1903,  the  free  use  of  the  Library  has  been  accorded  to  the  entire  town- 
ship, but  the  number  of  borrowers  from  the  rural  districts  is  yet  far  from 
what  it  should  be.  By  a  tax  levy  of  six  cents  on  the  hundred  dollars  in 
the  city,  and  two  cents  in  the  township  outside  the  city,  the  fund  esti- 
mated to  be  made  annually  available  for  all  Library  purposes  is  $1,600. 
There  was  expended  during  the  year  1903,  exclusive  of  the  Carnegie  gift, 
$1,302.03. 

The  Library  is  now  under  personal  direction  of  Miss  Sarah  Cunning- 


6  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

ham,  with  Miss  Irma  Pierce  as  assistant.  Miss  Cunningham  has  had 
charge  of  the  work  for  the  past  four  years. 

No  accepted  system  of  classification  of  books  has  yet  been  perfected 
here.  The  open  stock  is  used  throughout  in  the  loaning  of  books.  There 
is  as  yet  no  special  work  with  children  and  no  system  of  bulletins  is 
used.  The  schools  and  various  clubs  are  invited  to  co-operate  in  the 
selection  of  books.  The  Library  is  open  each  day,  except  Sundays  and 
fixed  holidays,  from  9  A.  M.,  to  9  P.  M.,  and  on  Sundays  from  2  to  4  p.  M. 
There  is  no  provision  for  vacation  period  for  employes  other  than  the 
universal  holidays. 

The  Library  recently  received  a  gift  of  $500.00  from  Mr.  R.  H.  Han* 
nah,  who  has  been  a  member  of  the  Board  for  two  years,  and  out  of  this 
there  has  been  created  the  Hannah  Book  Fund,  which  is  to  be  so  known 
in  perpetuity.  In  the  annual  re-organization  of  the  Board,  which  took 
place  on  December  17,  1903,  Mr.  Hannah  was  chosen  president.  The 
other  members  of  the  Board  are  as  follows:  Dr.  F.  G.  Keller,  vice-presi- 
dent; Rev.  J.  Baker,  secretary;  Mrs.  Abigail  McNairy,  Mrs.  Katharine 
Miller,  Mrs.  ComeHa  Bertsche,  W.  T.  Baker,  E.  P.  McMahan  and 
Joseph  G.  Brannum. 

The  new  Library  building  was  auspiciously  opened  and  dedicated  on 
December  3,  1903,  when  addresses  were  given  by  Mr.  Robert  Lincoln 
Kelly,  Ph.  M.,  president  of  Earlham  College,  and  Miss  Merica  Hoagland, 
of  the  Public  Library  Commission.  There  is  a  wide  and  growing  inter- 
est in  the  success  of  the  institution,  and  its  future  is  one  of  gratifying 
promise. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  7 

ANDERSON. 
Public  Library  of  Anderson. 

The  first  circulating  library  of  Anderson  was  owned  and  maintained 
by  a  few  private  citizens,  and  was  founded  in  1881.  To  promote  the 
cause  of  the  Y.  M.  C.  A.,  it  was  afterwards  donated  to  that  institution. 
When  the  free  public  library  was  established  by  the  city,  the  books  of 
the  old  subscription  library  and  of  the  Y.  M.  C.  A.  were  used  as  a  found- 
ation, Mr.  Marcus  Kilboume  serving  as  the  first  librarian. 

The  present  library,  which  is  now  known  as  the  Public  Library  of 
Anderson,  Indiana,  is  an  outgrowth  of  these  libraries,  and  was  opened  to 
the  public  in  1894  with  about  1,000  volumes.  The  first  borrower's  card 
was  issued  November  3,  of  that  year,  bearing  the  number  one;  the  serial 
numbers  now  run  into  fourteen  thousand,  which  gives  some  idea  of  the 
growth  in  membership. 

Mr.  Stephen  Metcalf  was  especially  instrumental  in  organizing  the 
library.  He  was  a  member  of  the  first  Library  Board,  and  has  continued 
to  serve  upon  the  Board  to  the  present  time. 

Books  have  been  added  to  the  shelves  from  time  to  time  as  the  funds 
permitted,  sometimes  over  1,000  volumes  per  year,  at  other  years  not  so 
great  a  number,  making  at  the  present  about  10,000  volumes.  During 
the  life  of  the  subscription  library,  Anderson  had  a  population  of  about 
5,000,  now  it  is  an  enterprising  city  of  25,000. 

Changing  hands  so  often,  the  library  has  never  been  systematically 
catalogued,  but  when  the  last  organization  was  effected,  the  Dewey 
classification  was  introduced,  and  modern  ideas  of  library  economy  adopt- 
ed. Miss  Ritta  May  Metcalf  acted  as  cataloguer,  and  performed  this 
duty  from  time  to  time  as  the  work  required.  Mrs.  David  Yount  was 
librarian  at  that  period,  and  served  a  short  term,  resigning  on  account  of 
ill-health,  and  Miss  Anna  B.  Myers  was  her  successor.  In  1898  Miss 
Katharine  A.  Chipman  was  appointed  to  the  position,  and  is  the  present 
incumbent. 

Mr.  W.  H.  Stanton,  chairman  of  the  Library  Board,  at  that  date, 
was  instrumental  in  getting  an  increase  in  the  levy,  which  is  derived 
from  the  city  tax  permitting  the  employment  of  additional  help  that  the 
growing  work  at  the  library  demanded,  and  Miss  Carrie  Lake  was  ap- 
pointed to  the  position  of  assistant  librarian,  and  is  still  serving  in  that 


8  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

capacity.  The  librarian  and  the  assistant  librarian  constitute  the  present 
force  at  the  library. 

With  the  increase  in  the  levy,  which  now  is  5  cents  on  the  100  dollars, 
the  total  revenue  being  about  $5,000  per  year,  it  was  decided  to  have  the 
library  re-catalogued,  Miss  Nellie  Fatout  being  employed  for  that  purpose. 
The  cataloguing  is  now  done  by  the  librarian,  and  the  card  catalogue  kept 
up  to  date. 

The  circulation  being  small  at  the  beginning  of  the  library  experi- 
ment, it  was  only  open  to  the  public  one  hour  and  forty-five  minutes  each 
evening,  Sundays  excepted.  As  the  work  increased  the  hours  were 
lengthened,  until  now  the  library  is  open  twelve  consecutive  hours  per 
day,  comprising  the  six  working  days  in  the  week;  each  attendant 
serving  for  fifty  four  hours  per  week.  Vacations  of  two  weeks  each  are 
allowed  the  librarians  each  year,  with  pay. 

The  open  shelf  has  been  introduced  into  the  library,  and  has  been  in 
operation  for  about  two  years.  It  seems  to  give  general  satisfaction  to 
patrons,  especially  to  the  student,  who  can  spend  as  much  time  as  he  de- 
sires in  search  of  books  without  feeling  that  he  is  infringing  upon  the 
rights  of  others.  The  Reading  Rooms  are  well  supplied  with  periodicals 
and  newspapers.  Fifty-six  different  periodicals  treating  of  literature, 
art,  science,  religion,  sociology  etc.,  and  newspapers  voicing  the  various 
political  parties  attract  daily  a  large  number  of  readers  to  this  depart- 
ment. 

The  teachers  are  allowed  to  take  extra  books  for  the  use  of  their 
pupils,  and  for  the  supplementary  school  work.  Lists  are  made  for  special 
occasions,  and  books  are  purchased  which  the  teachers  suggest  would  be 
helpful  in  the  school  course.  A  graded  list  of  juvenile  books  contained  in 
the  library,  has  been  made  by  the  librarian  for  the  Superintendent,  and 
published  by  him  in  the  School  Manual. 

The  members  of  the  study  clubs  are  encouraged  in  every  way  to 
come  to  the  library  for  their  reference  work.  If  the  programs  are  hand- 
ed in  before  their  season  of  work  begins,  the  subjects  are  looked  up, 
classified,  and  held  ready  for  them  when  needed.  When  suflScient  mate- 
rial can  not  be  found  upon  any  topic  in  the  library,  books  are  ordered  es- 
pecially for  them,  if  they  can  be  found. 

The  evolution  in  the  housing  of  the  library  has  kept  pace  with  the 
growth  of  the  institution.  One  room  over  a  store  building  was  its  first 
home,  later  two  larger  rooms  were  secured,  and  a  third  move  into  the 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  9 

Masonic  Temple  furnished  still  more  commodious  quarters.  In  1902, 
through  the  instrumentality  of  Hon.  M.  M.  Dunlap,  then  Mayor  of  the 
city,  Mr.  Carnegie  donated  $50,000  for  a  library  building.  The  Common 
Council  gave  a  valuable  lot  in  the  heart  of  the  city,  upon  which  to  erect 
the  edifice,  and  at  last  the  library  has  a  home  of  its  own.  "Beautiful 
for  situation." 

The  good  that  Mr.  Carnegie  has  done  for  the  library  cause  will, 
*iive  after"  him,  and  the  coming  generations  will  be  blessed  by  his  munifi- 
cence. 

The  Library  Board  is  appointed  by  the  mayor.  The  first  Board  con- 
sisted of  six  members,  this  number  has  since  been  increased  to  fifteen. 
It  is  now  composed  of  all  the  Common  Council,  as  follows:  W.  W.  Ather- 
ton,  Dr.  A.  W.  Miller,  H.  Van  Horn,  J.  K.  Johnston,  C.  L.  Friel,  Dr.  W. 
Kneal,  and  the  following  well  known  citizens  interested  in  library  work : 
Stephen  Metcalf ,  Prof.  J.  W.  Carr,  Hon.  E.  E.  Hendee,  F.  A.  Walker, 
W.  J.  Woolley,  C.  H.  Neff,  Hon.  M.  M.  Dunlap,  T.  B.  Orr,  and  A.  C. 
McKee.  To  their  cordial  support,  and  their  efficiency,  is  due  in  a  great 
measure,  the  present  usefulness  and  importance  of  the  library. 


ANGOLA. 
SoRosis  Library. 

Angola,  the  county  seat  of  Steuben  county,  Indiana,  with  a  popula- 
tion of  about  2,200,  is  a  flourishing,  up-to-date  town,  in  most  every 
respect,  but  does  not  handle  the  Library  question  in  the  right  spirit.  The 
College  and  High-School  have  excellent  Libraries  but  they  are  not  open 
to  the  public. 

Once  upon  a  time  there  was  a  "Working  Man's  Library"  but  the 
books  are  now  scattered  to  the  four  winds.  And  it  was  not  until  the 
women  took  it  into  their  hands  that  a  permanent  library  was  established. 
August  16,  1895,  "The  Sorosis  Circle,"  one  of  the  leading  Hterary  soci- 
eties of  the  town,  having  a  membership  of  fifty,  called  a  special  meet- 
ing for  the  purpose  of  establishing  a  circulating  library.  All  necessary 
committees  were  appointed,  the  town  canvassed,  and  October  3,  about  350 
books  were  placed  in  one  of  the  stores  ready  for  circulation,  with  a  mem* 
bership  of  103.  In  February,  1898,  the  Circle  hired  a  room  in  which  to 
keep  the  Library,  the  Circle  paying  the  rent  and  using  the  room  for 
their  meetings.  The  Library  is  open  to  the  public  every  Saturday  after- 
noon.   Any  one  may  become  a  member  by  paying  one  dollar  per  year. 


10  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

Books  may  be  kept  two  weeks  with  the  privilege  of  renewal.  A  fine  of 
two  cents  is  charged  for  each  day  the  book  is  kept  over  two  weeks  unless 
renewed.  There  is  a  librarian  appointed  by  the  Circle  who  examines  the 
books  quarterly,  sees  that  the  books  are  kept  in  repair  and  that  the  Lib- 
rary is  open  on  the  appointed  days.  The  ladies  of  the  Circle  act  as 
assistants.    All  services  are  donated. 

At  present  the  Library  contains  686  volumes,  besides  many  paper 
bound  books,  magazines,  and  State  publications  not  catalogued.  It  con- 
tains "Charles  Dudley  Warner's  Library  of  the  World's  Best  Literature," 
histories,  many  of  the  old  standard  works,  as  well  as  the  best  of  the  new 
fiction,  and  an  excellent  line  of  juvenile  books. 

From  twenty-five  to  fifty  books  are  added  each  year,  bought  from  a 
Library  fund  made  up  of  a  certain  per  cent,  of  the  Sorosis  dues,  all  fines, 
and  an  occasional  dollar  from  outside  subscribers. 

Sometimes  the  Circle  becomes  discouraged  from  the  lack  of  interest 
shown  by  the  outside,  and  has  talked  of  withdrawing  it  from  the  public, 
but  has  not  done  so,  and  the  good  work  still  goes  on.  And  who  knows 
but  that  some  day  Angola  will  awaken  to  the  fact  that  she  has  in  her 
midst  a  Library  of  which  she  can  be  proud  ? 


ATTICA. 
Attica  Public  Library. 

The  Ladies'  Library  Association  of  Attica,  was  an  outgrowth  of  a 
history  class,  belonging  to  the  "Society  to  Encourage  Study  at  Home," 
founded  by  Anna  Eloit  Ticknor,  of  Boston.  As  this  class  had  to  borrow, 
out  of  town,  what  books  they  needed,  they  organized  a  library  in  order 
that  they  might  have  access  to  its  books.  This  association  was  organized 
at  the  home  of  Mrs.  James  Martin,  was  incorporated  in  1885,  under  act 
of  April  7th,  1881,  passed  by  the  Indiana  Legislature. 

The  ladies  solicited  library  members  at  two  dollars  a  year  member- 
ship; this  was  changed  in  two  or  three  years  to  one  dollar  a  year,  with 
this  money  they  bought  their  first  books.  These  were  kept  in  the  Mayor's 
office  in  the  city  hall  and  moved  from  there  to  a  front  room,  second  floor, 
in  a  business  block.  While  the  librarian  was  always  appointed  by  the 
officers  of  the  association,  her  services  were  voluntary. 

The  association  no  sooner  found  itself  in  possession  of  a  few  books 
and  a  name,  than  it  felt  the  need  of  a  local  habitation.    The  thought  at 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  11 

first  of  having  a  building  of  their  own  suggested  itself,  only  to  be  van- 
ished as  an  absurdity,  but  like  Banquo's  ghost,   it  would  not   down. 

The  city  deeded  them  a  lot,  which  they  had  asked  for,  and  with  this 
and  other  encouragements  they  began  a  library  building.  With  continued 
efforts  and  struggles  by  the  ladies  at  times  when  it  seemed  impossible  to 
make  ends  meet,  they  succeeded  in  completing  the  building  in  the  year 
1889.  This  building,  every  inch  of  timber  so  full  of  memories,  the  ladies 
deeded,  in  May,  1902,  to  the  city  of  Attica  to  be  used  as  a  Pubhc  Library, 
under  the  act  of  1901.  The  city  council  voted  a  tax  levy  of  six  cents  on 
the  hundred  dollars,  and  voted  $250  for  expenses  until  the  tax  levy  would 
become  operative. 

The  Board  are  Mrs.  L.  S.  Levor,  president;  Mrs.  Charles  Zeigler, 
vice  president;  Mrs.  Caroline  Finney,  appointed  by  the  judge;  Mayor 
W.  B.  Reed;  Dr.  M.  S.  Case,  appointed  by  the  council;  Mr.  H.  C. 
Martin,  secretary,  and  F.  W.  Macoughtry,  appointed  by  the  school  board. 
By  act  of  1903  the  library  was  entitled  to  a  tax  from  the  township,  and 
the  township  trustee,  Mr.  Ed  Connell,  by  virtue  of  his  office,  became  a 
member  of  the  Library  Board  with  power  to  appoint  another,  Mr.  George 
Stafford,  a  resident  of  the  township.  The  Library  was  closed  for  three 
months,  until  the  books,  nearly  1,500,  were  catalogued,  the  Dewey  deci' 
mal  classification  being  used,  and  the  work  very  satisfactorily  done  by 
Miss  Daisy  Henley,  of  Wabash,  Ind.,  now  librarian  of  that  city,  and 
assisted  by  the  Attica  librarian.  The  Library  was  opened  to  the  pubhc 
in  October,  1902,  with  two  circulating  days  a  week,  Wednesday  and 
Saturday,  from  two  until  five  o'clock,  the  public  having  access  to  the 
shelves. 

The  circulation  for  the  first  year  was  11,628,  making  an  average  of 
about  lOY  for  every  circulating  day.  Open  shelves  are  used.  The 
borrowers  number  664.  One  librarian  is  employed— Miss  Katharine 
Fisher,  who  was  in  the  Ladies*  Library  Association  for  four  years, 
and  one  assistant.  Miss  Pearl  Haller.  The  Library  has  an  income  of 
about  $1,000  a  year,  used  in  defraying  the  necessary  expenses;  the 
bulk,  of  course,  going  for  new  books.  This  year  500  new  ones  were 
added,  most  of  them  being  books  of  substance,  with  a  few  new  novels. 
The  rents  and  fines,  which  amount  to  three  dollars  a  month,  pay  the  jani- 
tor, and  buy  the  few  little  things  needed  by  the  librarian. 

As  the  Library  is  just  getting  under  way,  the  librarian  has  not  been 
able  to  do  any  special  work,  but  is  just  coming  to  that.  The  patrons 
have  been  learning  to  use  a  public  library,   and  judging  by  the  growth 


12  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

of  the  reference  work,  they  are  learning  rapidly.  Of  course  the  club 
members,  teachers  and  pupils  come  oftenest.  Teachers  are  allowed  to 
take  as  many  books  at  one  time  as  can  be  spared,  or  as  they  may  need 
in  their  work.  The  Library  is  liberal  to  club  members  also  and  the  Hbrarians 
spend  much  time  helping  them.  The  Art  Club  books  and  magazines  are 
kept  in  the  Library.  These,  of  course,  no  one  but  Art  Club  members 
are  permitted  to  use. 

The  children  have  an  hour  on  Wednesday  from  four  until  five.  The 
time  so  far  has  been  used  in  trying  to  show  them  what  they  want  and 
where  to  find  it.  The  Library  prepares  for  the  celebration  of  special 
days  in  appropriate  season,  such  as  Bird  Day,  etc.  In  a  few  months 
the  books  will  be  moved  into  a  new  building,  a  $10,000  gift  from  Mr. 
Carnegie. 


AURORA. 
Aurora  Public  Library. 

The  PubHc  Library  of  the  city  of  Aurora  occupies  a  unique  position 
in  the  history  of  our  city  in  that  it  was  first  provided  for  by  the  wise  fore- 
sight of  the  founders  of  the  city.  It  was  first  organized  by  the  voluntary 
contributions  of  a  number  of  public-spirited  citizens,  and  it  was  finally  put 
on  a  more  favorable  footing  by  the  enactment  of  a  state  law  which  had 
Aurora  particularly  in  mind. 

When  Aurora  v/as  incorporated,  in  1819,  one  lot,  located  on  Fifth 
Street  (then  called  Literary  Street),  was  set  aside  for  a  public  library. 
At  that  time  and  for  many  years  afterward  the  town  was  not  in  a  condi- 
tion to  support  a  Hbrary,  so  the  lot  stood  vacant  and  nothing  was  done. 

Finally,  in  1882,  Mr.  James  R.  Vail  and  others,  who  were  of  the  same 
spirit  as  the  broad-minded  founders  of  the  city,  conceived  the  plan  of 
selling  the  library  lot  and,  by  the  organization  of  a  stock  company  of 
citizens,  to  establish  a  library.  This  was  done  after  one  hundred  and 
forty-one  (141)  shares  at  five  dollars  per  share  had  been  subscribed  for 
by  fifty-one  people.  The  lot  was  sold  for  seven  hundred  dollars  making  a 
total  of  fourteen  hundred  and  five  dollars  to  be  put  into  the  hands  of  the 
Board  of  Directors.  This  consisted  of  E.  H.  Davis,  J.  P.  Coulter,  John 
A.  Conwell,  Captain  Alex  B.  Pattison,  Rev.  A.  C.  Davidson,  Captain  H. 
P.  Sparth,  and  Captain  David  Lostutter.  At  this  time  the  share  holders 
were  subject  to  assessments  besides  being  required  to  pay  one  dollar 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  13 

per  year  into  the  association.  Persons  who  were  not  share  holders  might 
enjoy  the  privileges  of  the  Library  by  the  payment  of  one  dollar  and  a 
half  a  year  if  women,  and  two  dollars  and  a  half  a  year  if  men.. 

Under  this  arrangement  the  organization  prospered  and  was  of  great 
benefit  to  the  city,  but  in  the  course  of  time  interest  fagged  somewhat, 
and  finally  it  seemed  that  some  change  should  be  made  so  that  the  public 
generally  might  make  use  of  the  hbrary  privileges.  Accordingly,  in  1901 
Frank  B.  Shutts,  with  State  Librarian  W.  E.  Henry,  framed  a  bill  which 
was  enacted  into  a  law  by  the  state  legislature,  which  provided  for  the 
transference  of  the  Library  to  the  city,  and  for  its  permanent  maintenance. 

This  Library,  which  is  in  two  well  lighted  rooms  in  the  city  building, 
contains  thirty-five  hundred  volumes  and  several  current  magazines  and 
papers  which  are  used  by  six  hundred  and  seventy  subscribers,  who  have 
access  to  these  books  three  afternoons  and  two  evenings  each  week.  It 
is  under  the  efl^cient  care  of  Miss  Luella  Wymond,  Librarian,  and 
Miss  Lois  Wymond,  Assistant  Librarian,  who  devote  about  eighteen  hours 
each  week  to  this  work,  and  who  make  the  institution  particularly  help- 
ful to  the  schools  and  literary  clubs  of  this  city  by  their  co-operation  and 
assistance  in  research  work.  The  annual  circulation  is  about  11,000  vol- 
umes. 

The  city  supports  this  valuable  institution  by  a  tax  of  three  cents  on 
each  one  hundred  dollars  of  taxable  property,  which  gives  a  total  income 
of  about  three  hundred  and  seventy  dollars  per  year.  This  is  barely  suffi- 
cient for  the  running  expenses  of  the  Library,  but  it  has  been  reinforced 
by  the  donations  of  books  and  money  until  about  four  hundred  volumes 
have  been  added  in  the  past  two  years.  A  book  shower  was  held  last  fall 
which  brought  more  than  eighty  volumes  to  the  shelves. 

During  its  existence  as  a  stock  company  the  following  persons  acted 
as  Librarians:  Miss  Rosa  Foulke,  Miss  Fannie  Foulke,  Miss  Lizzie  Folber, 
Miss  Grace  McGuire  and  Miss  Margaret  Wymond. 

Under  the  new  law  the  control  of  the  Library  is  vested  in  a  Board  of 
three  citizens  selected  by  the  city  council.  When  first  organized  the 
Board  consisted  of  Captain  Alex  B.  Pattison,  Superintendent  J.  R.  Hus- 
ton, and  James  R.  Riddell,  and  this  Board  has  not  been  changed.  These 
men  are  all  good  men  for  this  Board  as  they  are  interested  in  the  Lib- 
rary; and  Captain  Pattison  especially  has  had  a  wide  experience  in  this 
work. 

Aurora  now  has  a  good,  free,  public  library  operating  under  a  very 


14  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

favorable  law  and  there  is  no  reason  why,  fostered  as  it  is,  it  should  not 
fulfill  the  expectations  of  the  liberal  minded  founders  of  the  city  who 
planned  for  a  community  where  culture  would  be  general  and  where 
ignorance  should  have  no  place. 

Thomas  W.  Records,  January,  20th,  1904. 


BEDFORD. 
Bedford  Public  Library. 

To  properly  chronicle  the  history  of  the  Bedford  Public  Library  one 
must  go  back  to  an  early  date.  While  the  Bedford  Public  Library, 
strictly  spoken  of,  is  of  recent  date,  it  is  really  the  product  of  early 
years.  The  framers  of  the  constitution  of  the  state  of  Indiana,  while 
themselves  not  all  men  of  culture  and  education,  and  representing  pio- 
neer communities,  fully  realized  the  value  of  books  and  book  learning, 
and  in  the  constitution  provided  that  in  the  erection  of  every  new 
county  there  should  be  set  aside  a  certain  fund  for  the  purchase  and 
maintenance  of  county  libraries. 

In  1818  the  legislature  created  the  county  of  Lawrence,  and  in  the 
Act  creating  it  we  find  this  provision: 

"The  agent  who  shall  be  appointed  to  superintend  the  sale  of  lots 
at  the  county  seat  of  the  county  of  Lawrence  shall  reserve  10  per  cent, 
out  of  the  proceeds  thereof  and  pay  the  same  over  to  such  person  or  per- 
sons as  may  be  appointed  by  law  to  receive  the  same  for  the  use  of  a 
library  ft)r  said  county. ' ' 

The  early  records  of  the  county  show  that  this  fund  was  collected, 
invested  in  books  and  the  Library  started  at  Palestine,  the  first  county 
seat  of  Lawrence  County. 

When  the  county  seat  was  changed  to  Bedford,  in  1826,  the  same  pro- 
vision was  made  in  the  law  for  the  sale  of  lots  here,  and  the  Library  was 
moved.  For  a  number  of  years  it  was  kept  in  different  oflfices  about  the 
public  square,  the  librarian  being  usually  some  one  who  was  willing  to 
administer  its  affairs  in  exchange  for  his  office  rent.  Under  such  man- 
agement its  growth  was  not  along  the  best  lines  nor  were  the  books  care- 
fully preserved. 

In  1852  an  act  of  the  legislature  made  the  clerk,  auditor  and 
recorder  the  trustees  of  county  libraries,  and  under  that  law  the   Law- 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  15 

rence  County  Library  was  adminstered  until  the  legislature  of  1899  per- 
mitted its  consolidation  with  the  Bedford  Public  Library. 

In  1856  the  state  furnished  this  county  with  eight  township  librar- 
ies, each  containing  about  three  hundred  volumes  and  one  of  them  was 
kept  with  the  County  Library.  Late  in  the  fifties  one,  and  perhaps  more 
of  the  ''McClure  Libraries"  came  to  Bedford. 

In  1897  the  total  number  of  volumes  belonging  to  three  libraries, 
the  Lawrence  County,  the  Shawswick  township,  and  the  McClure, 
did  not  exceed  eight  hundred,  and  of  these  scarcely  six  hundred  were  in 
a  condition  fit  for  circulation.  No  volumes  had  been  added  for  several 
years,  and  Bedford  was  a  growing  town,  with  a  population  athirst  for 
books.  In  the  early  part  of  December,  1897,  at  the  suggestion  of  Mrs. 
A.  C.  Voris,  Messrs.  R.  N.  Palmer,  T.  J.  Brooks,  and  J.  R.  Voris  con- 
stituted themselves  a  committee  to  organize  a  Public  Library.  A  sub- 
scription paper  was  started  and  met  with  such  success  that  at  a  meeting 
of  the  subscribers  held  on  the  20th  of  December  the  committee  was  able 
to  report  a  total  subscription  of  $1,250.00  The  meeting  was  organized  by 
the  appointment  of  T.  J.  Brooks,  chairman,  and  W.  A.  Webb,  clerk,  and 
determined  that  the  Library  should  be  known  as  the  "Bedford  Public 
Library."  Thomas  J.  Brooks,  W.  H.  Smith,  J.  R.  Voris,  George  M. 
Dodd,  J.  W.  Newland,  Isaac  H.  Crim,  and  Robert  N.  Palmer  were  made 
directors  of  the  institution.  This  Board  of  Directors,  has  been  contin- 
ued up  to  the  present  writing. 

The  Library  is  organized  under  the  law  of  1852,  in  force  May  6th,  1853, 
and  the  acts  supplemental  thereof,  and  amendatory  thereto. 

The  following  named  were  the  subscribers:  Moses  F.  Dunn,  A.  C. 
Voris,  John  R.  Walsh,  J.  W.  Cosner,  E.  B.  Thornton,  Thos.  J.  Brooks, 
Joseph  R.  Voris,  Wm.  H.  Martin,  C.  H.  Emery,  J.  T.  Freeland,  A.  J. 
McDonald,  Wm.  N.  Matthews,  W.  H.  Smith,  C.  S.  Norton,  F.  D.  Nor- 
ton, J.  W.  Newland,  Mrs.  J.  W.  Newland,  E.  K.  Dye,  George  M.  Dodd, 
W.  H.  Cosner,  R.  N.  Palmer,  I.  N.  Glover,  Wm.  A.  Webb,  J.  F.  Hamer, 
Jno.  L.  Tilford,  C.  A.  Durrenberger,  John  Haase,  John  W.  Owen,  H.  H. 
Walls,  J.  A.  Gunn,  S.  F.  Buchanan,  O.  M.  Cosner,  C.  M.  Dobbins,  Ham- 
let Brosius,  E.  D.  Mitchell,  W.  M.  Dobbins  &  Son,  J.  B.  Duncan,  J.  B. 
Stipp,  C.  M.  Lemon,  I.  H.  Crim,  T.  0.  Daggy,  J.  B.  Malott,  E.  R.  Dob- 
bins, Hodge  &  Day,  John  A.  Rowe,  F.  E.  Stipp,  G.  M.  Foster,  Braxtan 
Bros.,  Charles  Walker,  J.  R.  Pope,  W.  M.  Dennison,  Newton  Crooke. 
At  a  subsequent  meeting  of  the  Directors  T.  J.  Brooks  was  elected  presi- 


16  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

dent  of  the  Library  and  J.  R.  Voris,  secretary  and  treasurer,  and  they 
have  been  continued  in  office  from  year  to  year,  up  to  the  present  by  the 
directors. 

The  directors  reahzed  from  the  first  that  to  insure  the  permanent 
success  of  the  institution  it  was  just  as  necessary  to  provide  for  the  main- 
tenance and  proper  care  of  the  Library  as  to  provide  books,  consequently 
it  was  agreed  that  a  small  fee  should  be  charged  for  the  use  of  the  books, 
so  that  at  its  inception  the  Bedford  Public  Library  was  not  free  to  the 
public.  A  proposition  was  made  to  the  Trustees  of  the  Lawrence  County 
Library  asking  them  to  turn  over  the  custody  of  their  books  to  the  new 
institution.  This  they  not  only  did,  but  turned  over  sufficient  money 
that  had  accumulated  as  interest  on  the  County  Library  fund  to  purchase 
eight  hundred  volumes  more. 

The  city  council  subscribed  $2, 500,  to  be  paid  in  annual  installments, 
but  after  the  first  payment  of  $1,000  was  made  it  became  unnecessary  to 
use  the  balance  and  in  that  far  the  subscription  was  cancelled. 

Rooms  on  the  second  floor  of  the  Tresslar  building  were  secured,  Mrs. 
Carrie  Winstandley  was  selected  the  Librarian,  and  the  Library  opened 
to  the  public  March  5,  1898.  At  the  session  of  the  legislature  in  1899  a 
bill  was  introduced  by  Senator  Brooks,  and  passed,  which  legalized  the 
transfer  of  the  books  of  the  Lawrence  County  Library  to  the  Bedford 
Public  Library,  provided  that  the  city  should  levy  a  tax  for  its  support, 
and  made  the  library  free  to  the  citizens  of  the  whole  county. 

In  July  1899,  the  directors  purchased  the  old  Baptist  church  building 
and  the  Library  was  housed  there  in  March  of  the  ensuing  year.  The 
legislature  of  1901  passed  a  bill  authorizing  the  Bedford  Library  to  buy, 
hold  and  convey  real  estate,  and  also  provided  that  the  County  Library 
fund  should  be  turned  over  to  it. 

In  January  1902,  Mrs.  J.  R.  Voris,  in  response  to  a  letter  she  had 
written  him,  received  from  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  an  offer  to  donate 
$15,000  for  the  erection  of  a  building  for  the  Bedford  Public  Library,  pro- 
vided that  the  City  Council  would  furnish  a  suitable  site,  and  pay  $1,500 
per  annum  for  maintenance.  The  Council  promptly  agreed  to  the  con- 
ditions, and  the  donation  and  maintenance  fund  were  afterward  increased 
to  $20,000  and  $2,000  respectively.  The  site  finally  selected  (at  the  North 
West  corner  of  14th  and  **K"  Streets)  was  purchased  for  $4,000,  of  which 
the  city  furnished  $3,000  and  the  Hbrary  from  its  fund  $1,000.     The  total 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  17 

cost  of  the  building,  including  the  furnishings  is  about  $21,000.  This  new 
building  was  occupied  and  opened  to  the  public  April  6th,  1903. 

The  building  is  classic.  It  is  one  story,  with  a  full  basement  below. 
The  walls  present  the  best  qualities  of  our  own  Bedford  stone.  The 
basement  is  of  blue  stone  and  the  upper  walls  of  buff.  It  presents  a  con- 
trast to  most  of  the  stone  buildings  of  the  city  in  that  it  is  of  cut  stone, 
while  the  taste  of  our  builders  has  usually  led  to  the  ashlar  or  rock  face 
being  used  here. 

The  directors  of  the  Library  have  quietly  gone  about  their  work  of 
love  and  civic  duty.  No  ceremony  has  marked  the  beginning  nor  fruition 
of  the  purpose.  No  corner  stone  laying,  nor  dedication  exercises  have 
been  used  to  glorify  the  work.  Modestly  it  has  moved  to  completion. 
At  no  place  on  or  in  the  building  is  placed  the  name  of  architect,  builder, 
or  directors.     The  name  of  Andrew  Carnegie  is  the  only  one  that  appears. 

Since  its  organization,  the  Library  has  had  three  librarians,  Mrs. 
Carrie  Winstandley,  Miss  Addie  Riley,  (now  Mrs.  G.  C.  Houston),  and 
the  present  Hbrarian,  Miss  Georgia  Friedley.  To  their  courteous  and 
efficient  administration  m-uch  of  the  growth  and  popularity  of  the  Library 
is  due. 

The  first  annual  report  of  the  secretary,  made  April  4th,  1899,  showed 
that  for  the  first  year  there  had  been  issued  from  the  Library  8,025  vol- 
umes, this  being  an  average  weekly  circulation  of  146,  or  an  average 
daily  circulation  of  twenty-one. 

In  the  year  ending  Dec.  31,  1902,  there  were  issued  35,212  volumes, 
a  weekly  average  of  607  and  a  daily  average  of  97. 

The  Library  is  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  classification  and 
has  now  on  its  shelves  6,559  volumes,  and  has  in  pamphlets  and  uncata- 
logued  books  fully  1,000  more.  Library  statistics  recently  compiled  show 
that  the  Bedford  Public  Library,  in  proportion  to  the  population  of  the 
city,  has  a  larger  circulation  than  any  other  Library  in  Indiana. 

There  are  added  annually  about  800  volumes.  Of  the  total  number 
of  volumes  in  the  Library,  about  1,100  are  juvenile,  special  care  having 
been  taken  by  the  directory  to  make  this  department  interesting  and 
instructive  to  the  httle  folks.  The  old  and  young  alike  have  free  access 
to  the  books. 

In  the  reading  room  may  be  found  thirty-six  of  the  best  magazines. 
These  are  carefully  preserved,  and  at  the  close  of  each  year,  are  securely 


18  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

bound  and  placed  upon  the  shelves.  The  total  expenses  of  the  Library 
per  year  reach  the  sum  of  $2, 500,  all  of  which  is  raised  by  direct  tax- 
ation. Yet  the  tax  is  so  light  that  it  is  scarcely  felt,  being  only  one  mill 
per  dollar.  3,246  borrowers,  are  registered  all  of  whom  may  at  any  time 
between  1:00  and  9:00  o'clock,  p.  m.  daily,  except  holidays,  have  free 
access  to  books,  reading  room,  magazines  and  reference  works. 

The  care  of  the  books  and  the  wants  of  the  patrons  are  looked  after 
by  Miss  Georgia  Friedly,  and  her  assistant.  Miss  Sue  Dodd,  who  are  paid 
forty-five  and  twenty-five  dollars  respectively,  per  month,  with  a  month's 
vacation  within  the  year. 

Bedford  is  proud  of  her  Library.  It  has  become  such  a  source  of 
pleasure  and  education  that  it  would  be  now  almost  impossible  to  do  with- 
out it,  and  the  wonder  is,  how  we  did  without  it  all  these  years. 


BLOOMINGTON. 

Sketch  of  Indiana  University  Library. 

Indiana  University  was  founded  by  legislative  act  January  20th, 
1820,  and  opened  its  doors  for  the  reception  of  students  on  May  1st,  1824. 

It  is  believed  that  the  beginning  of  a  Library  was  made  in  those 
earliest  days,  and  the  result  of  this  effort  is  given  as  late  as  1842  in  a 
pamphlet  bound  catalogue  which  abounds  in  high  sounding  classification 
terms  and  lists  of  Latin  tomes.  Tradition  has  it  that  the  first  students 
received  their  inspiration  from  the  imposing  external  appearance  of  those 
folios  and  octavos  of  the  17th  and  18th  centuries,  rather  than  from  actual 
contact  with  the  books.  But  who  can  say  they  did  not  serve  a  purpose. 
On  April  9th,  1854,  the  fire  brand  of  an  incendiary  destroyed  the  first 
Library.  The  catalogue  alluded  to  above  and  a  life  of  Washington  in 
Latin,  by  Glass,  alone  were  saved  from  this  fire. 

The  story  of  the  second  Library  is  quickly  told.  A  bolt  of  lightning 
at  midnight  July  12th,  1883,  a  brilliant  but  an  appalling  spectacle  and 
12,000  volumes  met  the  fate  of  the  first  collection.  Not  rare  editions 
this  time,  but  good  workaday  books,  that  being  gone  it  seemed  almost 
useless  to  try  to  carry  forward  the  work  of  the  University.  This  loss  so 
keen  and  so  hard  to  recover  from  is  now  replaced  by  a  growing  Library 
of  50,000  volumes. 

The  Library  is  mainly  a  reference  one,  and  is  fast  becoming  known 
for  the  advantages  it  offers  to  advanced  students  in  research  work  along 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  *9 

various  lines  of  scholarly  activity.  It  is  supported  by  the  bounty  of  the 
state  and  about  4,000  volumes  are  added  yearly.  These  are  accessible  to 
students  (by  calling  for  them  at  the  delivery  desk)  from  7:45  A.  M.  to  10 
p.  M.  every  week  day  with  the  exception  of  Saturday,  when  the  hours 
are  from  8  A.  M.  to  5  p.  M. 

There  is  no  free  access  to  the  shelves  in  the  general  meaning  of  that 
term,  but  advanced  students  are  given  stack  permits  which  admit  them 
at  all  times  to  the  departmental  seminaries  wherein  they  are  doing  special 
work.     Certain  classes  of  books  are  loaned  over  night. 

Formerly  the  Dewey  classification  was  used,  but  the  sequence  of 
classes  was  not  suited  to  the  Library  and  the  intimate  relation  it  bears 
to  the  courses  of  instruction.  A  carefully  worked  out  system  has  been 
adopted  which  allows  of  great  expansion  and  elasticity,  and  at  the  same 
time  adjusts  itself  readily  to  the  individual  needs  of  the  various  university 
departments. 

In  1843,  and  for  many  years  afterward,  Dr.  T.  A.  Wylie,  professor  of 
Natural  Philosophy,  and  a  ripe  scholar  of  the  old  school,  acted  as  librarian 
in  conjunction  with  his  other  duties.  Today  one  finds  a  staff  of  five 
salaried  officers  and  five  student  assistants.  The  students  act  as  desk 
attendants,  and  give  the  Library  from  four  to  eight  hours  each,  daily. 

In  classification  technique,  the  life  of  the  Library  may  be  divided  into 
three  chronological  divisions.  From  its  beginning  to  1854  was  the  * 'form- 
ative period,"  1854  to  1880  may  be  termed  a  "restoration,'*  and  that 
from  1880  to  the  present,  * 'later  19th  century."  With  the  last  period 
came  new  problems,  new  methods  to  solve  these  problems,  new  curricula 
in  this  and  other  universities,  and  a  profession  but  lately  recognized — 
modern  librarianship.  Men  who  have  served  Indiana  University  in  this 
capacity  are  William  W.  Spangler,  of  Indiana  University,  Alexis  V. 
Babine,  of  the  St.  Petersburg  Institute  of  History  and  Philosophy  and 
Cornell  University,  George  F.  Danforth,  of  Cornell  University.  Louise 
Maxwell,  of  Indiana  University,  was  Acting  Librarian  until  the  appoint- 
ment of  Mr.  Danforth' s  successor,  Mr.  William  E.  Jenkins,  of  Indiana 
University. 

Since  1891  the  Library  has  been  housed  in  a  beautiful  stone  fire  proof 
building,  Maxwell  Hall,  provided  for  it  through  the  generosity  of  the 
State. 


20  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

BLOOMINGTON. 
The  Monroe  County  and  Public  School  Library. 

The  foregoing  title  at  once  suggests  a  combination.  To  differentiate, 
the  Monroe  County  Library  had  its  origin  in  or  about  the  year  1818,  when 
an  early  law  of  the  state  brought  about  the  organization  of  Monroe 
county  and  also  ''provided  that  ten  per  cent,  of  the  sale  of  town  lots 
should  be  used  to  found  and  maintain  a  County  Library.'*  A  treasurer 
was  appointed  to  take  care  of  the  fund.  The  first  purchase  of  books  was 
made  in  1821,  when  sixty  dollars  was  spent  for  a  few  dozen  standard 
works.     They  were  bought  of  B.  Ferguson,  whoever  he  may  have  been. 

The  first  sale  of  town  lots  was  made  June  22,  1818.  The  proceeds 
of  this  sale  amounted  to  $14,327.85.  Out  of  this  sum  $1,945.53  went  to 
the  Library  fund.  By  July  1,  1830,  the  total  proceeds  from  sale  of  in 
lots  and  out  lots  amounted  to  $29,899.72^.  The  total  Library  fund  at  this 
date  was  $4,327.32.  Meantime  $2,328.14  had  been  received  by  the  Lib- 
rary in  the  way  of  running  expenses  and  money  actually  invested  in 
books.  The  Library  fund  had  also  sustained  a  loss  of  $625.50  from  bad 
debts,  relinquished  lots  and  other  causes.  On  July  1,  1830,  the  Library 
had  due  it  the  sum  of  $1,272.68. 

From  the  foregoing  it  is  readily  discernible  that  the  founders  of  this 
Library  started  on  a  substantial  basis,  and  they  set  apart  what  for 
that  day,  and  for  a  long  subsequent  period,  proved  a  munificient  fund  for 
the  maintenance  of  a  Library. 

In  the  course  of  time  three  county  officers  to-wit:  the  auditor,  the 
recorder,  and  the  clerk  became  the  trustees  of  the  Library.  Through 
this  Board  of  Control  the  business  of  the  Library  was  transacted.  But 
records  were  poorly  and  scantily  kept,  so  that  it  is  not  possible  to  give 
any  detailed  account  of  purchases,  expenditures,  and  additions  to  the 
Library. 

A  one-story  brick  building  was  erected  directly  east  of  the  court 
house  during  the  twenties.  This  was  the  home  of  the  Library  until  the 
year  1894  when,  with  the  consent  of  the  trustees,  it  was  combined  in  the 
Central  School  building,  with  the  Public  School  Library.  Since  that  year 
(1894)  the  two  Libraries  have  been  kept  in  a  room  in  the  Central  build- 
ing in  charge  of  a  Hbrarian  appointed  and  paid  by  the  city  Board  of  Educa- 
tion. 

In  1855  began  the  distribution  of  funds  for  the  establishment  of  Work- 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  •  21 

ing  men's  Libraries  under  the  provision  of  the  will  of  William  McClure 
of  New  Harmony,  Indiana,  and  under  this  distribution  donations 
were  made  to  144  associations  in  89  of  the  92  counties  of  the  state. 
Monroe  county  has  been  a  participant  in  the  benefits  from  this  fund. 
The  combined  funds,  namely  the  original  County  Library  fund  and  the 
McClure  fund,  have  now  become  very  small,  hardly  $500.  This  sum  rep- 
resents the  resources  of  the  Library  aside  from  an  occasional  donation 
from  the  city  Board  of  Education. 

The  present  Library  of  about  2,000  volumes  is  a  valuable  and  help- 
ful accessory  to  the  educational  agencies  of  the  city.  During  every 
school  month  not  less  than  500  books  and  a  goodly  number  of  current 
magazines  are  taken  from  the  Library .  and  read  by  the  children  of  the 
schools. 

In  addition  to  this  use  of  the  Library  a  moderate  number  of  books 
are  taken  from  the  Library  by  citizens  of  the  city  and  surrounding 
county,  so  that  the  Library  is  serving  the  wants  of  ail  who  avail  them- 
selves of  its  help.  Its  past  has  been  useful  and  honorable  as  an  educa- 
tional force  in  the  hands  of  all  classes  of  citizens.  The  outlook  is  that 
its  future  will  not  be  less  valuable  and  it  is  believed  that  it  may  furnish 
the  nucleus  of  a  much  larger  and  better  equipped  collection  of  useful, 
interesting  and  practical  books,  managed  and  used  under  modem  methods. 

Miss  Zora  Miller  is  the  present  librarian.  Her  intelligence  and  prac- 
tical knowledge  of  the  tastes  of  children  in  reading  are  doing  much  to 
cultivate  the  reading  habit  in  the  children. 


22  •  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

BLUFFTON. 
Bluffton  Public  Library. 

Preceding  the  year  1893  there  was  just  the  semblance  of  a  Library 
in  Bluffton,  books  having  been  donated  by  children  and  a  few  by  adults. 
This  was  managed  by  any  teacher  who  had  the  time  each  evening  after 
school.  Finally  in  June,  1892,  Superintendent  W.  P.  Burris  advised  the 
school  board  to  take  advantage  of  the  state  law  to  levy  a  tax  of  one-third 
of  a  mill  on  the  dollar  for  the  building  up  of  a  City  Library.  The  first 
books  were  placed  on  the  shelf  in  December,  1893,  and  the  Library,  then 
known  as  the  School  Library,  was  officially  opened.  Several  hundred 
volumes  were  placed  in  the  Library  at  this  time.  From  this  small  begin- 
ning has  grown  the  Library  as  it  is  today,  numbering  between  seven  and 
eight  thousand  volumes. 

One  high  school  teacher  was  elected  to  fill  the  place  of  librarian,  S. 
E.  Hitchcock,  holding  the  position  until  in  June,  1896,  when  Miss  Bertha 
Craven  was  selected  for  the  place  upon  the  resignation  of  Mr.  Hitchcock. 
Miss  Craven  still  holds  the  position  of  librarian. 

Our  present  Library  was  presented  to  the  city  under  the  name  of 
the  Bluffton  Public  Library,  in  June,  1902,  when  a  new  board  was  organ- 
ized under  the  rules  for  Library  organizations,  according  to  the  statutes 
of  1901.  As  stated  before,  the  Library  contains  eight  thousand  volumes, 
about  five  hundred  being  added  each  year.  At  least  seventy  of  the  best 
magazines  of  the  day  are  received  by  the  Library.  Both  the  books  and 
magazines  are  due  to  a  levy  of  six  mills  on  the  dollar  as  a  source  of 
income  for  all  Library  purposes. 

During  the  year  1903  the  circulation  was  over  25,000,  average  circula- 
tion per  day  being  about  eighty-one.  The  borrowers'  list  numbers  about 
700,  with  about  5,000  population.  By  the  payment  of  $1.00  per  year  any 
one  outside  the  corporation  may  have  access  to  the  Library. 

The  Library  hours  are:  12:30  to  5:00  o'clock,  p.  m.,  and  6:30  to  9:00 
o'clock,  p.   M. 

The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  system,  and  patrons 
have  access  to  the  shelves.  It  has  been  found  impossible  to  do  special 
work  with  the  children  and  clubs  with  the  limited  room,  having  only  two 
small  rooms  at  the  present  time,  located  in  the  basement  of  the  court 
house.    As  only  one  librarian  is  employed,  without  any  assistant,   for  all 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  *  23 

hours,  and  no  relief  whatever,  only  about  two  weeks'  vacation  in  July, 
she  finds  it  impossible  to  do  much  with  bulletin  work. 

Bluff  ton  has  received  a  gift  of  $14, 000  from  Andrew  Carnegie  for 
a  new  Library  building,  the  construction  of  which  will  begin  early  in 
March,  1904,  with  expectations  of  its  completion  in  the  October  follow- 
ing. The  names  of  the  present  Board  of  Trustees  are:  President,  J.  W. 
Goodyear;  Vice-Pres.,  Mrs.  W.  H.  Eichhom;  Sec'y.,  J.  P.  Hale;  Mrs. 
Dana  Brown;  Mrs.  Abe  Simmons;  W.  H.  Tribolet  and  S.  E.   Hitchcock. 

Bertha  Craven. 


BORDEN. 
Borden  Institute  Library. 

Wishing  to  found  a  school  in  a  section  of  Indiana  where  farmers' 
sons  and  daughters  and  persons  in  moderate  circumstances  could  obtain 
an  education  sufficient  to  enter  college  at  medium  price  for  board  and 
tuition,  the  Borden  Institute  was  founded,  in  1885,  by  William  W.  Borden, 
at  the  village  of  Borden,  Clark  county,  Indiana. 

At  the  time  the  Institution  was  opened  for  reception  of  students,  a 
library  of  some  fifteen  hundred  volumes  of  the  best  literature  was  installed 
as  a  necessary  part  of  the  school  outfit,  and  named  the  Borden  Institute 
Library. 

From  fifty  to  one  hundred  volumes  were  added  per  year,  also  many 
bound  volumes  of  the  best  monthly  magazines. 

In  a  few  years  the  library  assumed  the  following  classification: 
early  American  history;  the  more  recent  history  of  the  United  States; 
early  school  books  as  Dilworth,  Dabal  and  Webster,  etc. ;  text  books 
on  geology  and  various  state  reports  on  the  same  subject;  samples  of 
early  printing,  as  the  Golden  Legends  of  1502;  illuminated  missals; 
the  large  quarto  illuminated  edition  of  the  birds  of  North  America,  by 
John  J.  Audubon,  and  five  other  volumes  on  that  subject.  A  prominent 
feature  of  the  library  is  the  British  Encyclopedia,  Johnson's,  Chamber's, 
etc. 

The  number  of  volumes  in  the  library  at  present  is  about  3,000.  No 
tax  is  levied.  This  library  was  originally  intended  for  the  use  of  the 
students  attending  the  college. 

In  a  few  instances  the  books  have  been  loaned  outside  of  the  town, 
which  has  at  present  about  375  inhabitants.  The  building  containing  the 
library  is  built  of  brick  and  stone  with  a  slate  roof.    The  building  cost 


24  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

thirteen  thousand  dollars,  and  was  not  built  exclusively  for  a  library 
building,  nor  is  it  strictly  fire  proof  as  all  library  buildings  should  be, 
yet  the  heating  is  by  furnace  (steam)  in  the  stone  basement. 

This  library  is  in  charge  of  a  librarian,  and  books  can  be  obtained 
free  at  any  time  upon  application.  No  special  work  is  done  for 
children,  but  the  library  contains  a  collection  of  juvenile  books,  in  order 
to  show  what  progress,  if  any,  has  been  made  between  old  and  more 
recent  books,  and  also  to  show  the  great  variety  of  new  subjects  at  the 
present  day. 

The  Board  of  Trustees  are  William  W.  Borden,  Mrs.  Emma  Borden, 
and  Dr.  D.  F.  Stalker,  all  of  the  town  of  Borden,  Indiana. 

An  item  of  local  interest  connected  with  this  place  is  the  Borden 
Museum,  which  has  a  fine  collection  of  crinoidas  and  also  a  very  full  col- 
lection of  fossil  corals. 

William  W.  Borden. 


BRAZIL. 
Brazil  Public  Library. 

The  history  of  this  library,  although  not  of  much  volume,  covers  a 
considerable  space  of  time.  The  exact  date  of  its  organization  is  lost; 
but  some  time  late  in  the  seventies  a  few  of  the  then  leading  literary 
people  consisting  of  E.  S.  Holliday,  W.  R.  Torbert,  R.  H.  Irwin  and  A. 
S.  Baldwin,  at  a  meeting  for  the  purpose,  organized  what  was  then  called 
the  Brazil  Public  Library  Association.  A  small  nucleus  of  books  was 
procured  by  purchase  and  by  donation  and  the  library  was  duly  installed 
in  an  upstairs  room  in  the  old  Turner  hall  building.  The  first  efforts  were 
assisted  by  the  Ladies' Literary  Society,  which  made  the  first  substan- 
tial donation  for  the  purchase  of  books— about  $75.  The  president 
of  the  association  was  E.  S.  Holliday,  secretary  R.  H.  Irwin.  At  the 
next  election  C.  W.  Crawford  was  elected  president  and  this  position  alter- 
nated between  Messrs  Holliday,  Crawford,  Capt.  T.  M.  Robertson  and 
perhaps  others  until  recently.  A  short  time  after  its  inauguration  an 
entertainment  was  gotten  up  on  the  anniversary  of  Robert  Bums,  24th 
of  January,  consisting  of  songs,  dances,  recitations,  etc.  The  proceeds  of 
this  performance,  about  $50  to  $75,  aided  greatly  in  buying  books.  The 
association  at  that  time  being  a  mercantile  adventure  depended  upon 
entertainments  for  its  support,  together  with  a  membership  fee  of  one 
dollar  a  year,  and  donations  of  books,  etc. 

The  Httle  entertainments  were  not  liberally  patronized  and  funds  be- 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  25 

came  so  low  that  it  was  difficult  to  keep  the  concern  alive.  Mr.  L.  0. 
Schultz,  librarian,  in  whose  office  the  library  was  kept,  assisted  greatly 
in  trying  to  make  it  popular,  but  people  found  their  own  business  more 
interesting  and  it  was  found  after  many  years  that  it  could  not  longer  be 
supported  by  direct  popular  effort.  Advantage  was  then  taken  of  the 
state  law  of  that  time  to  make  it  a  free  library,  securing  a  certain  small 
per  cent  of  the  taxation  amounting  to  about  $150  a  year  at  first,  increas- 
ing afterwards  to  about  $250  a  year. 

About  this  time  it  was  removed  to  the  City  building,  north  side  of 
Main  St.,  where  it  remained  rent  free  for  years,  suffering  neglect  and  little 
patronage  by  the  people.  It  was  cared  for  by  Thos.  Henderson,  then  city 
treasurer.  After  becoming  an  eyesore  and  a  reproach  to  the  town  it  was 
determined  to  reorganize  it  with  the  assistance  of  the  various  Ladies' 
Literary  clubs  in  the  hope  that  it  might  receive  better  attention  and  pat- 
ronage in  their  hands. 

The  result  of  this  change  was  beneficial.  The  ladies  together  with 
some  of  the  gentlemen  friends  of  the  library  at  once  recommended  a  public 
reading  room  to  be  kept  open  at  nights  and  three  afternoons  each  week. 
A  room  was  procured  and  the  books  cleaned  and  placed  in  improved  shelves 
and  some  new  books  added;  six  of  the  gentlemen  and  three  ladies  volun- 
teered to  attend  as  hbrarian  one  night,  and  one  afternoon  respectively 
each  week.  Magazines  and  papers  were  added  to  the  reading  matter  and 
the  attraction  became  popular  at  once  and  the  interest  continues  to  the 
present.  Miss  Alice  Stone  was  then  appointed  as  librarian.  It  ought  to 
have  been  mentioned  that  the  remnant  of  the  McClure  library  was  secured, 
soon  after  the  library  was  installed,  through  the  courtesy  of  E.  S.  Hussey, 
John  Ackelmire,  E.  W.  Smith  and  others  of  Brazil  Lodge,  264,  F.  &  A. 
Masons.  This  made  a  substantial  addition  to  the  reading  matter.  Other 
donations  of  books  were  made  and  cash  contributions  have  vari- 
ously aided  in  tiding  the  library  over.  Much  of  the  work  of  con- 
ducting the  library  through  its  darkest  days  is  due  to  some  of  the  patriotic 
ladies  of  Brazil,  prominent  among  whom  were  Mrs.  W.  H.  Gifford,  Mrs. 
L.  0.  Schultz,  Mrs.  J.  E.  Sherfey,  Mrs.  Col.  Zimmerman,  Mrs.  John 
Richardson,  deceased,  Mrs.  C.  H.  Knight,  deceased,  Mrs.  W.  P.  Blair 
and  others. 

In  1901  the  Library  Association  was  reorganized  under  the  Mummert 
Law,  and  the  following  persons  appointed  members  of  the  Board:  Messrs. 
C.  W.  Crawford,  H.  F.  Bucklen,  J.  F.  Smith,  R.  H.  Morrish,  Mrs.  W. 
W.  Moore,  Mrs.  C.    B.  Greenough,    and  Mrs.    Charles   Hutchison.    The 


26  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

Board  organized,  electing  R.  H.  Morrish,  president;  H.  F.  Bucklen,  sec- 
retary. Late  in  the  same  year  application  was  made  to  Mr.  Carnegie 
for  a  donation  to  erect  a  library  building,  which  was  granted  in  the  sum 
of  $20,000.  At  the  request  of  the  Library  Board  the  City  Council  appoint- 
ed the  following  persons  as  an  Advisory  Board  to  hold  office  until  the 
completion  of  the  building:  C.  S.  Andrews,  Col.  Zimmerman,  Capt.  Rob- 
ertson, Silas  Brosius,  C.  H.  Kattman,  John  Rawley,  and  the  three  mem- 
bers of  the  Building  Committee  of  the  Council,  B.  A.  Scofield,  John  Apple 
and  R.  M.  H.  Briton.  A  site  was  selected  and  paid  for  by  public  sub- 
scription, and  early  in  1903,  the  contract  for  a  handsome  stone  building  was 
let  to  the  Brazil  Stone  Co.  The  cornerstone  was  laid  by  the  Masons, 
August  6th,  1903,  Capt.  W.  E.  English,  of  Indianapolis,  officiating  as 
Grand  Master.  It  is  expected  that  the  new  building  with  its  10,000  vol- 
umes will  be  dedicated  to  the  public  about  May  1st,  1904. 

In  1903  the  Library  Board  lost  two  efficient  members  by  the  resigna- 
tion of  H.  F.  Bucklen,  and  the  moving  away  of  Mrs.  Charles  Hutchison, 
but  they  were  succeeded  by  Prof.  B.  A.  Munson,  as  secretary,  and  Mrs. 
R.  H.  Crouch,  both  of  whom  are  intelligent  and  zealous  workers,  an  exem- 
plification of  the  old  saying :  * 'The  workman  may  die,  but  the  work  goes 
on." 

Knowledge  is  like  salt  water,  the  more  one  takes,  the  thirstier  one 
is;  hence,  fast  as  has  been  the  growth  of  the  Brazil  Library  in  the  last 
few  years,  it  has  scarcely  kept  pace  with  the  demands  of  its  patrons. 

C.  W.  Crawford, 
R.  H.  Morrish, 

Members  Library  Board. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  27 

CANNELTON. 
Cannel"ton  Public  Library. 

Cannelton  may  claim  with  pride  to  have  been  among  the  first  of 
Southern  Indiana  towns  to  possess  a  pubHc  hbrary,  but  the  endowment 
for  its  maintenance  was  unfortunately  lacking,  so  that  half  a  century's 
interval  separates  the  modest  little  collection  of  books  brought  together 
in  the  early  fifties  under  the  title  of  ''Workingmen's  Institute"  from  the 
present  officially  acknowledged  * 'Cannelton  Public  Library."  The  taste 
for  reading  never  died  out,  however,  and  while  no  record  is  in  evidence 
as  to  the  dissolution  of  the  Workingmen's  Institute,  its  existence  is  only  to 
be  traced  by  some  of  its  volumes  that  are  yet  treasured  on  the  private 
shelves  of  old  families  whose  members  were  among  its  original  patrons. 

In  1893  some  fifty  citizens  joined  in  forming  a  subscription  library, 
open  to  members  and  their  families  on  payment  of  entrance  fee  and  small 
monthly  dues.  At  the  beginning  three  hundred  volumes  were  purchased, 
and  others  were  added  as  rapidly  as  the  limited  income  would  permit. 
The  books  (kept  in  a  private  office)  circulated  widely,  even  beyond 
authorized  bounds,  proving  the  existence  of  a  genuine  demand  for  good 
reading  matter  which  the  City  Council  came  to  recognize  in  1896,  by 
making  a  tax  levy  of  one-half  of  one  per  cent,  for  the  establishment  and 
support  of  a  free  ))ublic  library  under  jurisdiction  of  the  municipal 
Board  of  Education. 

This  was  felt  to  mark  an  era  of  progress  by  those  who  had  so  long 
and  patiently  striven  to  create  and  mould  a  local  sentiment  toward  this 
end,  and  the  instant  popularity  which  followed  the  opening  of  the  library 
fully  justified  the  sanguine  hopes  of  its  enthusiasts  promoters.  In  recog- 
nition of  the  long  and  arduous  individual  efl^orts  exerted  in  three  special 
instances,  Mrs.  Isabelle  de  la  Hunt,  Mr.  Solomon  H.  Esarey,  and  Mr. 
Thomas  J.  Truempy  were  appointed  the  original  book  committee,  and  in 
such  capacity  still  continue  to  supervise  the  selection  of  new  books,  pur- 
chases being  usually  made  twice  a  year,  thus  keeping  somewhat  abreast 
of  current  literature,  though  the  standard  classics  have  never  been 
ignored,  and  the  two  thousand  volumes  now  catalogued  (which  closely  ap- 
proximate in  number  the  city's  population)  represents  a  liberal  judg- 
ment along  many  lines. 

Miss  Mary  Adkins  was  the  first  librarian,  holding  the  position  until 
1900,  when  she  was  followed  for  two  years  by  Mr.  Edward  E.  Cummings, 
whom  the  present  incumbent,  Mr.  Charles  A.  Lcesch,  succeeded  in  1902. 


28  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

The  small  salary  available  from  the  funds  at  command  only  allows  the 
library  to  be  open  three  afternoons  and  evenings  of  each  week  (Monday, 
Wednesday  and  Saturday),  but  the  daily  circulation  of  volumes  is  never 
less  than  one  hundred,  while  the  twelve  or  fifteen  carefully-choosen  peri- 
odicals are  regularly  read  by  adults  and  juveniles  alike.  The  five  or  six 
hundred  borrowers  (who  must  reside  within  the  corporation  and  show  a 
card  signed  by  a  tax-payer,  entitling  them  to  two  volumes  for  fourteen 
days  with  privilege  of  once  renewing)  are  permitted  direct  access  to  the 
cases  which  are  numbered  by  shelves  simply  for  convenience  in  locating. 
Classification  is  similarly  arranged  under  general  divisions,  but  not  ac- 
cording to  any  of  the  standard  systems  of  library  cataloguing,  the  im- 
portance and  value  of  which  are  not  yet  estimated  at  their  full  value  by  the 
Trustees,  Dr.  George  W.  Rial,  Mr.  Ernest  Rinkle  and  Mr.  Michael  D. 
Casper. 

In  September,  1902,  the  library  was  moved  from  its  previously  cramped 
quarters  in  a  narrow  hall-way  to  an  airy,  spacious  and  well  lighted  room 
on  the  ground  floor  of  the  city  building  where  it  is  now  permanently  es- 
tabhshed  with  room  for  expansion,  in  every  sense  of  that  much  used 
word.  The  structure  is  somewhat  old,  yet  capable  of  renovation  which 
time  and  further  prosperity  will  undoubtedly  accomplish.  It  was  built 
for  a  school,  then  used  during  some  two-score  years  as  the  county  court- 
house. Upon  erection  of  the  present  beautiful  court-house  (a  rare  archi- 
tectural gem  and  free  gift  from  Cannelton  to  Perry  County)  the  old  edifice 
was  returned  to  the  city  for  public  purposes  as  might  be  required,  and  of 
these  the  library  is  by  no  means  the  least  important.  Commodious 
grounds  surround  the  city-hall,  and  are  planted  with  shade  trees,  laid 
out  in  walks,  etc.,  as  a  park,  corrresponding  to  the  county  property  on 
the  opposite  side  of  the  street.  The  city  school  is  also  quite  near,  making 
it  convenient  and  beneficial  to  the  pupils,  although  a  library  of  special  ar- 
rangement to  their  needs  is  maintained  in  the  High  School.  It  is  to  Can- 
nelton's  credit  that  such  an  institution  has  been  founded  and  kept  up, 
even  on  so  small  a  scale,  by  local  pride,  as  no  donations  have  ever  been 
received  other  than  the  volumes  originally  embraced  in  the  subscription 
library,  but  the  eye  of  Hope  still  turns  toward  the  munificence  of  Ind- 
iana's already  liberal  benefactor— Andrew  Carnegie. 

Thomas  James  de  la  Hunt. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  29 

CARTHAGE. 
The  Henry  Henley  Public  Library. 

Henry  Henley  was  one  of  the  founders  of  Carthage,  a  httle  village 
thirty  miles  east  of  Indianapolis.  He  was  a  Quaker  from  North  Car- 
olina, as  were  most  of  the  early  settlers  in  the  neighborhood.  This  town 
still  has  no  more  than  1,100  inhabitants,  but  has  a  thing  hardly  par- 
allelled among  similiar  villages— a  library  of  3,300  volumes  and  a  $6,500 
building  all  paid  for  by  its  own  citizens. 

Always  desiring  the  best  for  his  fellow-townsmen,  Henry  Henley 
proposed  to  establish  a  free  public  library,  offering  for  that  purpose 
$1,000.  A  library  association  was  at  once  organized  under  the  state  law 
of  1852,  in  regard  to  libraries,  as  amended  in  1879  and  1885.  Twenty 
persons  became  stockholders  with  equal  interests,  and  August  1,  1889, 
the  following  directors  were  elected:  William  P.  Henley,  J.  M.  Stone, 
N.  C.  Binford,  Levi  Binford,  J.  F.  Publow,  Eunice  H.  Dunn,  and  Lezena 
Thomburg.  The  gift  of  $1,000  was  formally  accepted  and  the  Associa- 
tion, wishing  in  some  measure  to  show  its  appreciation  of  this  gift,  called 
the  books,  over  which  it  had  control.  The  Henry  Henley  Public  Library. 
In  addition  to  the  gift  of  $1,000,  Henry  Henley  defrayed  all  the  additional 
expenses  of  establishing  the  Library. 

Already  there  were  small  collections  of  books  in  the  village  and  these 
were  added  to  the  new  collection  by  the  various  owners :  the  Carthage 
Literary  Association,  the  W.  C.  T.  U.,  and  the  Carthage  Monthly  Meet- 
ing of  Friends.  One  room  in  the  Carthage  Bank  building  was  made  use 
of  for  a  number  of  years  till  the  increase  of  books  made  it  evident  that 
there  must  be  a  suitable  building.  The  sum  of  money  provided  by 
taxation  was  only  sufficient  for  the  maintenance  including  small  yearly 
additions  to  the  stock  of  books. 

A  second  time  private  donations  gave  new  impetus  to  its  life.  The 
children  of  the  founder  gave  $2,000  to  the  building  fund  and,  with  sub- 
scriptions from  other  citizens,  two-thirds  of  the  cost  of  the  new  build- 
ing was  assured.  The  other  third  was  raised  by  taxation.  The  library 
building  was  completed  in  1902  at  a  cost  of  $6,500.  The  books  in  the 
library  now  numbered  3,300  volumes.  Two  hundred  new  books  are 
added  each  year.  Ten  current  magazines  and  four  weekly  periodicals 
are  found  on  the  tables.    The  one  cent  tax  levy  for  books  and  an  addi- 


30  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

tional  two  cent  tax  for  running  expenses  amounts  to  $500,  which  covers 
the  entire  annual  expenditure. 

Eleven  hundred  citizens  of  Carthage  and  those  of  Ripley  township 
have  free  use  of  the  library,  while  those  from  adjacent  townships  may 
use  it  by  the  payment  of  a  small  annual  fee.  The  circulation  of  books 
for  the  past  year  was  6,335  volumes,  with  an  average  of  forty -nine  vol- 
umes loaned  each  library  day.  The  number  of  borrowers  was  474.  The 
library  is  open  Tuesdays,  Thursdays  and  Saturdays  from  2  to  5  P.  M. 
and  from  6  to  8  P.  M.  with  an  additional  morning  period,  9  to  12.  A.  m. 
on  Saturdays.  A  part  of  the  time  on  Sunday  afternoons,  the  Women's 
Literary  Circle  has  had  charge  of  the  Library  as  a  reading-room.  This 
makes  eighteen  hours  a  week,  with  a  librarian  in  attendance,  the  follow- 
ing persons  having  acted  in  that  capacity:  Luzena  Thornburg,  Rose 
Henley,  Grace  Steere,  Mattie  Clark  and  Pearl  Coffin. 

The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  decimal  system,  and  open 
shelves  add  to  the  pleasure  and  profit  of  the  patrons.  In  the  arrangement 
of  children's  books,  their  needs  have  been  carefully  considered.  The  shelv- 
ing is  convenient  while  tables  and  chairs  especially  planned,  invite  them 
to  remain  in  their  own  domain.  Not  much  bulletin  work  has  been 
attempted,  but  all  available  material  for  such  work  is  carefully  preserved 
with  a  view  to  making  use  of  it  as  soon  as  practicable.  The  needs  of  club- 
workers,  teachers  and  schools  have  always  received  special  attention. 


CHARLESTOWN. 
Charlestown  Public  Library. 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for 
a  historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning 
this  library. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES       '*•  31 

COLUMBUS.  . 
The  Columbus  Public  Library; 

Ten  years  ago  the  board  of  education,  of  Columbus,  made  a  small 
tax  levy  for  library  purposes.  That  levy  was  repeated  annually  until 
1899,  when  the  accumulated  funds  amounted  to  more  than  $5,000.  In 
August  of  that  year  the  library  was  opened  to  the  public. 

Very  large  credit  is  due  the  Ladies'  clubs  of  Columbus  for  their 
efforts  and  success  in  creating  public  sentiment  favorable  to  a  free  library. 

The  library  was  housed  in  very  cramped  quarters  until  June,  1903, 
when,  through  the  munificence  of  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie,  by  invitation  of 
the  board  of  trustees:  Messrs.  John  Stobo,  J.  N.  D.  Reeves  and  William 
May,  the  city  of  Columbus  found  its  library  installed  in  a  commodious 
building  of  Bedford  limestone  with  every  convenience  needful  for  the 
reading  public.  The  basement  floor  has  a  heating  plant,  toilet  rooms, 
unpacking  room,  office  for  the  board  of  education,  government  document 
stack  room,  students'  study  room  and  ladies'  club  room.  The  main  floor 
has  a  rest  room,  librarian's  private  oflSce,  librarian's  pubHc  desk,  stack 
room,  twenty-four  by  forty  feet,  children's  reading  room,  twenty-six  by 
thirty-eight  feet,  and  a  general  reading  room,  twenty-four  by  forty  feet. 
The  conditions  for  ventilating  and  lighting  are  ideal. 

For  a  city  of  8,500  population  the  growth  of  the  hbrary  in  number  of 
volumes,  and  in  public  appreciation  and  utility,  has  been  very  gratifying. 
The  library  now  has  6,300  volumes  and  800  pamphlets,  and  is  increasing 
at  the  rate  of  600  volumes  annually.  There  are,  also,  fifty-two  current 
magazines.  The  number  of  borrowers  is  3,651,  with  an  annual  circulation 
of  23,787,  being  an  average  daily  circulation  of  seventy-seven. 

The  borrowers  are  not  limited  to  the  residents  of  the  city.  Any  citi- 
zen of  the  county  may  secure  all  the  privileges  of  the  library  by  paying 
an  annual  registration  fee  of  one  dollar.  To  the  residents  of  the  city  the 
library  is  free. 

The  library  is  open  five  days  in  the  week  from  1:00  to  9:00  P.  M. 
and  on  Saturday  from  9:00  A.  M.  to  9:00  p.  m.  The  public  has  access  to 
the  shelves.  The  Dewey  classification  is  used,  and  the  public  school 
children  receive  systematic  training  in  the  use  of  the   library  equipment. 

The  management  is  in  the  hands  of  the  board  of  education  which  now 
consists  of  J.  N.  D.  Reeves,  president;  John  L.  Bonham,  treasurer,  and 


32  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

M.  H.  Snively,  secretary.  This  board  meets  all  expenditures  by  a  local 
tax  levy,  which  is  now  six  cents  on  the  hundred  dollars.  The  immediate 
administration  of  the  library  is  under  the  direction  of  a  librarian  who  is 
assisted  at  the  desk,  in  busy  periods,  by  the  custodian  of  the  building. 

Miss  Jennie  Elrod,  now  of  the  state  library,  was  the  first  librarian, 
serving  until  July,  1902.  Miss  Anna  Owen  followed  Miss  Elrod  as  lib- 
rarian, serving  until  November,  1902,  when  she  resigned.  At  this  time 
Miss  Jose  Sayer  became  acting  librarian,  serving  in  that  capacity  until 
May  1st,  1903,  when  the  present  librarian,  Miss  June  Deming  was  selected. 


CONNERSVILLE. 

CONNERSVILLE  PUBLIC  LIBRARY. 

The  articles  incorporating  the  Connersville  Public  Library  were  filed 
with  the  county  recorder  November  18,  1893.  Previous  to  that  date  it 
had  existed,  through  the  aid  of  private  contributions,  for  three  years. 
By  far  the  larger  portion  of  these  contributions  was  given  by  the  fac- 
tories as  individual  institutions.  As  many  as  eight  of  them  subscribed 
$50  each,  annually,  for  the  three  years.  Public-spirited  citizens  also  aided 
in  the  furnishing  of  means.  Hon.  F.  T.  Roots  was  quite  influential  in 
getting  the  library  and  reading-room  into  good  running  condition. 

At  the  beginning  of  its  life  as  an  incorporated  library,  three 
directors,  R.  C.  Wright,  L.  L.  Broaddus,  and  W.  F.  L.  Sanders  were 
chosen,  the  latter  being  appointed  secretary  and  treasurer. 

Some  time  after  the  death  of  Mr.  Wright,  Mrs.  C.  D.  Beck  was 
chosen  to  fill  the  vacancy.  This  lady  and  the  other  two  of  the  original 
directors,  constitute  the  present  board. 

The  number  of  volumes  is  1,954;  the  number  added  yearly  being  at 
present  about  one  hundred.  The  council  supports  the  library  by  a  tax 
levy  of  three  cents  on  the  $100.  The  average  circulation  per  day  is  fifteen. 
The  number  of  borrowers  is  approximately  500.  The  population  of  the 
city  is  7,000.    The  use  of  the  library  is  limited  to  the  city. 

The  library  is  kept  in  a  rented  room,  on  a  second  floor;  open  six  days 
per  week  from  2:00  p.  M.  to  5:00  p.  M.,  and  from  7:00  p.  M.  to  10:00 
p.  M.,  except  on  legal  holidays.  The  books  are  partially  classified  accord- 
ing to  subjects.  The  young  people  have  access  to  the  shelves  con- 
taining  the  books   suitable  for  them.       The    high    school   pupils   are 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  33 

becoming  much  intereisted  in  making  the  library  serve   them  in  their 
study. 

The  present  librarian  is  Miss  Belle  Ball,  who  is  well  qualified  for  the 
duties,  having  taken  special  pains  to  prepare  herself  for  the  work. 

The  total  annual  expenditure  for  all  Hbrary  purposes  is  $900.  The 
annual  expenditure  for  periodicals  is  about  $100;  the  most  important  of 
these  are  bound  and  placed  upon  the  shelves  as  reference  books. 

We  are  well  aware  that  our  library  is,  as  yet,  very  small  and  our 
means  very  limited;  but  we  believe  that  it  will  never  be  smaller,  and  that 
it  will,  in  a  few  years,  be  reckoned  among  the  best  in  the  state. 

W.  F.  L.  Sanders,  Sec.  and  Treas. 


CRAWFORDSVILLE. 
Crawfordsville  Public  Library. 

The  Crawfordsville  Public  Library,  of  Crawfordsville,  Ind.,  is  the  out- 
growth of  an  organization  perfected  in  December,  1897.  A  public  library 
association  was  then  formed,  rooms  rented,  a  librarian  employed,  and  a 
library  established  by  the  public  donation  of  books  and  money.  This  as- 
sociation was  continued  until  October,  1899,  when  its  property  was  turned 
over  to  the  city  school  board,  that  body  having  agreed  to  maintain  the 
public  library  by  levying  a  tax  on  the  property  of  Crawfordsville. 

On  March  8,  1901,  Andrew  Carnegie  donated  $25,000  to  Crawfordsville 
for  the  erection  of  a  library  building,  which  building  was  dedicated  on 
July  29,  1902.  The  cost  of  the  building  completed  was  about  $27,000,  the 
amount  in  excess  of  the  Carnegie  donation  having  been  voted  by  the 
school  board  in  order  to  render  the  building  absolutely  fire  proof  and  to 
provide  a  portion  of  its  equipment. 

In  accordance  with  the  agreement  with  Mr.  Carnegie,  the  city  raises 
by  taxation  an  annual  income  of  $2,500  for  the  library,  which  sum  is  slight- 
ly increased  by  the  collection  of  fines.  Before  the  Carnegie  donation  the 
income  raised  by  taxation  was  not  so  large  as  at  present  because  for 
more  than  a  year  after  the  erection  of  the  building  a  considerable  portion 
of  the  money  had  to  be  devoted  to  the  expense  incidental  to  the  estab- 
lishment of  the  library  in  its  new  home.  Last  year  only  750  volumes 
were  purchased,  but  it  is  now  estimated  that  in  future  the  money  left, 
after  providing  for  maintenance,  will  enable  the  book  committe  to  add 


34  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

about  1,200  volumes  annually  to  the  shelves.    This  will  be  materially 
augmented  by  government  publications  and  gifts. 

The  library  now  contains  about  6,000  carefully  selected  volumes, 
many  of  which  are  valuable  works  of  reference,  while  upon  the  periodical 
tables  may  be  found  about  forty  of  the  best  magazines  besides  a  number 
of  high  class  newspapers. 

The  library  has  about  2,500  borrowers,  the  daily  circulation  being 
about  100  volumes.  The  purchase  of  books  is  in  the  hands  of  a  specially 
appointed  book  committe  of  seven  persons.  The  schools  and  clubs  of  the 
city  are  well  represented  on  this  committee  as  especial  attention  has 
always  been  given  to  their  claim.  As  the  demand  for  fiction  has  been 
so  great  as  to  somewhat  embarrass  the  committee  in  its  endeavor  to  equip 
the  library  with  proper  reference  books,  relief  has  been  sought  and,  to  a 
considerable  degree,  afforded,  by  permitting  the  Tabard  Inn  Library  to 
operate  its  local  business  in  the  library  building. 

The  library  is  open  between  the  hours  of  11:00  A.  M.  and  8:30  P.  M. 
without  intermission.  Miss  Sue  Beck  has  been  the  librarian  since  the 
organization  of  the  pubHc  hbrary,  her  assistant  being  Miss  Bessie  Bridges. 
The  trustees  are  Dr.  W.  H.  Ristine,  Henry  Campbell,  and  J.  A.  Greene. 

In  the  library  building  is  the  office  of  the  superintendent  of  schools 
and  also  that  of  the  school  trustees.  In  the  basement  of  the  building  the 
several  clubs  of  the  city  have  recently  finished  and  furnished  a  large  and 
handsome  room  for  club  meetings.  A  second  large  room  is  soon  to  be 
fitted  for  occupancy  by  a  historical  society,  thus  centering  about  the 
library,  the  club  and  school  interests  of  Crawf  ordsville. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  35 

CRAWFORDSVILLE. 
Wabash  College  Library. 

Wabash  College  was  founded  at  Crawfordsville,  Indiana,  in  the  year 
1832.  While  it  is  safe  to  say  that  in  those  early  years  of  beginning,  a 
collection  of  books  did  not  quickly  form  itself,  and  the  library  was  hardly 
a  tangible  object  for  several  years  afterward,  yet  the  library  spirit  was 
present.  Until  as  late  as  1891,  professors  whose  names  are  a  part  of 
the  history  of  the  college,  divided  their  time  and  labor  in  the  interests  of 
the  Hbrary.  From  1834  to  1891,  Wabash  College  Library  was  a  growing 
collection  of  books,  shifted  to  various  quarters  to  accommodate  its  growth. 
Books  were  turned  over  from  the  private  libraries  of  those  interested  in 
the  welfare  of  the  college,  and  soon  endowment  funds  were  established 
by  donors  for  the  purchase  of  current  literature  for  the  library. 

The  literary  societies  of  the  college,  with  the  Hbraries  they  accum- 
ulated, were  of  service,  and  finally  donated  their  collections.  In  1891, 
the  unique,  and  what  has  proven  to  be  admirably  arranged  building,  a 
gift  of  the  late  Simon  Yandes,  of  Indianapolis,  Indiana,  was  completed, 
and  bears  the  name  *  'Yandes  Library  Hall. "  It  is  a  library  building 
exclusively,  built  in  the  form  of  a  cross  extending  110  feet  east  and  west, 
90  feet  north  and  south,  and  two  stories  in  height. 

Into  this  thoroughly  fire  proof  building,  the  library  of  29,000  volumes 
was  moved,  and  is  at  present  approaching  the  40,000  mark.  The 
pamphlets,  as  well  as  bound  volumes,  are  classified  according  to  the 
Dewey  decimal  classification,  and  card  catalogued.  The  library  looks 
mainly  to  the  income  from  endowment  funds,  established  by  private 
donors,  for  the  support  of  the  library,  and  is  enabled  to  add  on  an  average, 
1,000  volumes  per  annum. 

The  periodical  Hst  is  large  in  proportion.  The  files,  as  volumes  are 
bound  and  added  from  year  to  year,  including  the  standard  periodical 
Hterature  of  the  day,  and  are  becoming  a  valuable  part  of  the  library. 

Books  are  selected  through  a  committee,  consisting  of  professors 
from  the  faculty.  Department  libraries  are  necessary  to  a  college  or 
university  as  are  branch  libraries  to  the  PubHc  Library,  and  these  are 
growing  institutions. 

The  circulation  of  a  college  library  is  perhaps  of  importance,  only  as 
it  may  show  the  amount  of  * 'light  reading"  being  done  by  the  scholarly 
body.     We  are  liberal  to  the  extent  that  a  record  is  not  kept  of  this. 

Non-fiction  books,  and  a  great  many  are  drawn,   may  be  kept  for 


36  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

two  weeks  with  the  privilege  of  renewal,  but  the  reference  work,  done  in 
the  library  and  of  which  it  would  be  difficult  to  make  an  estimate,  is 
encouraged  in  every  way. 

The  library,  the  only  one  in  the  city,  until  very  recently,  being  a 
college  library,  has  not  been  understood  as  open  to  the  public,  but  its 
influence  has  reache'd  out  farther  than  the  immediate  bounds  of  the 
college. 

The  Hbrary  hours  are  from  8  A.  m.  to  5  P.  M.,  except  Saturdays, 
9  A.  M.  to  12  M. 


DANVILLE. 
Library  of  The  Central  Normal  College. 

This  library  had  as  its  beginning  the  private  library  of  but  a  few 
score  volumes,  of  the  first  president  of  the  college,  in  1876.  For  many 
years  it  contained  numerous  good  books  loaned  by  the  professors  of  the 
college.  Additions  were  made  from  year  to  year,  by  purchase  and 
donations,  until  the  number  of  volumes  is  upward  of  2,000,  exclusive  of 
statistical  reports  that  are  still  kept  but  not  given  shelf  room. 

The  books  have  been  carefully  selected.  The  needs  of  the  students 
of  the  college  alone  have  been  considered.  The  general  public  have 
always  been  invited  to  use  the  library,  but  not  many  have  accepted  on 
account  of  the  special  character  of  the  books.  That  the  selections  have 
been  wisely  made  is  shown  from  the  use  of  the  library  by  the  students. 
Those  taking  literary  courses  can  be  found  there  every  day.  Men  who 
have  had  wide  opportunity  to  observe  say  this  is  the  most  generally  used 
of  any  college  library  they  know. 

There  are  seven  sets  of  encylopedias.  The  Hbrary  is  strongest  in 
history  and  philosophy,  though  there  is  something  pertaining  to  all  sub- 
jects taught  in  the  college. 

The  Library  is  now  located  in  Chapel  Hall,  in  a  room  24  feet  by  70 
feet,  especially  constructed  for  it.  The  book  cases  line  the  walls  and 
study  tables  fill  the  floor.  A  librarian  is  in  charge,  but  students  are  at 
liberty  to  go  to  the  cases  and  select  for  themselves.  The  librarian's 
consent  must  be  obtained  to  take  a  book  from  the  room.  The  bound 
volumes  of  magazines  and  the  valuable  reports  have  all  been  indexed  so 
that  finding  a  desired  article  is  an  easy  matter.  Daily  papers  and  mag- 
azines are  provided.  The  library  is  open  six  days  each  week  while  the 
college  is  in  session. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  37 

DANVILLE. 
Danville  Public  Library. 

Danville,  Indiana,  a  beautiful  county  seat  town,  twenty  miles  west  of 
Indianapolis,  with  a  population  of  about  two  thousand  people,  has  long 
felt  the  need  of  a  public  library.  The  Central  Normal  College,  located 
here,  enrolls  hundreds  of  students  from  many  states.  In  February,  1902, 
the  president  of  the  Commercial  Club,  Mr.  Mord.  Carter,  wrote  a  letter 
to  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie,  explaining  the  needs  of  the  town  for  funds  to 
build  a  library  building,  which  resulted  in  an  offer  from  Mr.  Carnegie  to 
donate  $10,000,  for  the  erection  of  a  building,  provided  the  town  would 
make  a  levy  that  would  raise  $1,000  per  year,  and  provide  a  suitable  site 
for  the  building.  The  Commercial  Club,  ladies'  clubs,  college  faculty, 
town  trustees,  school  board,  and  citizens  came  forward  with  aid  and  a 
library  board  was  organized  under  the  Acts  of  1901.  A  lot  was  purchased 
by  popular  subscription,  and  the  plans  submitted  by  Mr.  S.  C.  Dark,  of 
Indianapolis,  Ind. ,  were  accepted,  and  a  contract  let  to  W.  C.  Halstead  & 
Co.,  of  Franklin,  Ind.,  for  the  erection  of  the  building.  The  township 
afterward  came  in  under  the  provisions  of  the  law  and  made  a  levy  of 
two-tenths  of  a  mill  on  each  dollar,  and  the  town  a  levy  of  one  cent  on 
the  dollar,  the  two  levies  raising  about  $1,500  annually  for  the  support 
and  building  up  of  the  library. 

The  building  was  dedicated  on  the  fifth  day  of  December,  1903.  The 
ladies'  clubs  raised  about  $300  for  books,  and  many  books  were  donated, 
making  in  all  about  1,500  volumes.   About  a  dozen  magazines,  are  taken. 

The  present  board  is  as  follows:  Mord.  Carter,  president;  Mrs. 
Jennie  Hill  King,  vice-president;  Mrs.  Josephine  K.  Thomas,  secretary; 
Henry  C.  Hadley,  treasurer;  Mrs.  Mattie  A.  Keeney,  Dr.  Joel  T.  Barker, 
Otis  T.  Spencer,  George  W.  Scearce,  and  David  Hadley,  township  trus- 
tee.    Miss  Lou  Robinson  is  the  present  librarian. 

The  Ubrary  is  open  each  day  except  Sunday  and  legal  holidays,  from 
10:00  A.  M.  to  12:00  M.  1:00  P.  M.  to  5:30  P.  M.,  and  6:30  p.  M.  to  8:00  p.  M. 
Some  bulletin  work  is  done  but  no  special  work  with  children.  Although 
the  Library  has  just  recently  opened,  it  is  being  well  patronized  and 
promises  to  be  of  great  value  to  the  community. 


38  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

DELPHI. 
Delphi  Public  Library. 

The  Delphi  Public  Library  was  organized  in  June,  1897,  under  the 
law  of  1883.  The  school  library,  the  old  township  Hbrary  with  the  books 
donated  by  the  Oracle  Club  formed  the  basis.  The  Oracle  Club  was  also 
instrumental  in  its  establishment. 

The  partition  between  two  cloak  rooms  on  the  second  floor  of  the 
school  building  was  removed  and  the  long  room  resulting  was  fitted  up 
for  library  purposes.  Book  shelves  extend  to  the  ceiling,  rolling  ladders 
making  accessible  the  upper  shelves. 

The  School  Board  has  charge  of  the  library  fund  which  is  derived 
from  a  tax  of  three-tenths  of  a  mill  and  amounts  to  about  six  hundred 
dollars  a  year.  The  present  members  of  the  board  are  J.  H.  Mount, 
H.  M.  Montman  and  Dr.  C.  E.  Angell. 

In  the  spring  of  1900  the  library  was  reorganized  and  classified 
according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification  and  its  card  catalogue 
begun. 

The  library  now  contains  about  three  thousand  volumes,  about  two 
hundred  and  fifty  being  added  each  year.  It  subscribes  for  twenty  of 
the  current  magazines.  The  library  is  open  each  day  from  8  A.  M.  to  12  M. 
and  1  p.  M.  to  5  P.  M.  The  public  has  free  access  to  the  shelves.  Of  the  two 
thousand  people  of  the  city  about  five  hundred  are  borrowers.  No 
one  outside  of  the  city  is  allowed  to  draw  books  with  the  exception  of 
the  pupils  of  the  surrounding  country  who  are  attending  High  School. 
The  circulation  for  home  use  is  about  8,500  a  year,  an  average  of 
twenty-eight  a  day.  This,  however,  does  not  begin  to  show  the 
use  of  the  library.  It  would  be  hard  to  estimate  its  value  to  the  school; 
being  in  the  same  building  it  is  used  constantly  by  the  pupils.  The  clubs 
and  missionary  societies  make  frequent  use  of  the  library  and  it  endeavors 
to  provide  itself  as  fully  as  possible  along  the  lines  of  their  studies. 

Miss  Emma  Meyer  has  been  librarian  since  the  establishment  of  the 
library  with  the  exception  of  the  year  August,  '97,  to  August,  '98,  when 
Miss  Mabel  Almond  had  charge.  The  librarian  has  no  regular  assistant. 
She  is  given  a  vacation  of  two  weeks. 

The  library's  present  quarters  are  becoming  very  crowded  and  it  is 
hoped  a  larger  room  may  soon  be  obtained. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  89 

ELKHART. 
Elkhart-Carnegie  Library. 

The  new  Elkhart-Carnegie  Library  was  completed  and  opened  to  the 
public  October  1st,  1903. 

A  gift  from  Mr.  Carnegie  of  $35,000  was  secured  through  the  enter- 
prise and  solicitation  of  two  of  Elkhart's  most  prominent  citizens:  Messrs. 
A.  H.  Beardsley  and  George  B.  Pratt,  who  appreciated  the  infinite  need 
of  their  city  in  this  direction.  These  gentlemen  first  secured  written 
pledges  from  their  councilmen  to  vote  for  an  annual  appropriation  of 
$3,500  for  the  maintenance  of  the  library  and  also  to  give  a  suitable  lot 
for  the  building.  They  then  visited  Mr.  Carnegie,  in  New  York,  and 
returned  with  this  generous  and  pleasing  result. 

The  ordinance  was  adopted  on  March  13th,  1901.  A  board  was  ap- 
pointed according  to  the  state  law,  and  was  organized  on  the  first  day  of 
April.  The  board  decided  on  a  plan  on  May  19,  and  the  work  on  the  build- 
ing was  begun  in  September,  1901. 

The  building  is  constructed  of  Indiana  dressed  stone  and  is  of  a  classic 
style  of  architecture.  The  main  rooms,  the  reading  room  and  children's 
room  and  the  large  hall  are  only  separated,  the  one  from  the  other,  by 
large  pillars,  so  that  all  public  portions  of  the  main  floor  may  be  under 
the  oversight  of  one  attendant  at  the  loan  desk,  if  necessary. 

The  hbrary  contains  about  7,000  volumes,  including  public  documents, 
and  numbers  112  current  magazines  in  the  reading  rooms.  There  was  a 
basis  of  3,000  volumes  from  the  public  schools  to  build  upon,  and  1,500 
volumes  more  were  added  by  the  different  literary  clubs  of  the  city. 

There  is  an  annual  appropriation  by  the  city  of  $3,500  for  the  yearly 
expenditures,  raised  by  a  tax  levy  of  five-tenths  mill  per  cent.  This  sum 
purchases  books  and  covers  the  salaries  of  the  librarian,  librarian's  assist- 
ant, and  the  janitor,  and  any  additional  help  required  of  a  cataloguer  or  a 
typewriter  comes  out  of  the  book  fund.  The  catalogue  and  shelf  list 
cards  are  all  typewritten. 

Of  the  book  fund,  $4,264.25  was  raised  October  15th,  1903,  by  1,040 
contributors,  in  amounts  ranging  from  two  cents  to  $200.00,  in  response 
to  an  offer  by  an  unknown  friend  to  duplicate  any  amount  not  less  than 
$3,500,  raised  by  the  citizens  of  Elkhart  for  the  purchase  of  books  for  the 
library. 

The  hours  are  from  9  a.  m.  to  9  p.  m.    for  the  senior  reading  room. 


40  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

The  loan  department,  children's  room  and  reference  room  are  open  from 
9  A.  M.  to  8  p.  M.  The  building  is  closed  on  Sundays  and  legal  holidays, 
and  each  member  of  the  staff  is  given  one  month's  vacation. 

The  open-shelf  system  is  in  use  in  all  departments  and  the  books  are 
arranged  according  to  the  Dewey  classification.  Two  cataloguers  from  the 
University  of  Illinois  did  the  bulk  of  the  work.  The  Brown  charging 
system  is  used  at  the  loan  desk.  The  number  of  borrowers  is  3,027  and 
but  one  lives  outside  the  city  limits,  there  being  a  charge  of  $1.00  per 
year  to  the  latter.  The  average  circulation  per  day  is  about  183.  The 
population  of  Elkhart  is  18,000. 

The  children's  library  is  especially  strong.  Bulletin  work  has  not 
been  taken  up  as  yet  but  will  come  in  its  time.  The  present  board  con- 
sists of  seven  members:  President,  A.  H.  Beardsley;  vice-president, 
J.  F.  Werner;  secretary,  Mrs.  E.  A.  Carpenter;  treasurer,  George  B. 
Pratt;  Mrs.  0.  C.  Hill,  Mrs.  Wm.  Hackman  and  Dr.  C.  C.  Bower. 

Kate  Sage,  Librarian. 


ELWOOD. 
Elwood  Public  Library. 

Elwood  has  been  a  city  for  less  than  fifteen  years,  its  population 
having  increased  from  2,284,  in  1890,  to  12,950  in  1900.  Under  these  con- 
ditions our  library  history  is  of  necessity  brief.  During  the  winter  of 
1898-^9,  the  people  of  Elwood  became  interested  in  establishing  a  free 
library.  The  women's  Hterary  clubs,  the  labor  unions  and  the  business 
men  entered  heartily  into  the  work.  Stock  was  subscribed  in  ten  dollar 
shares,  and  the  Elwood  Public  Library  Association  was  organized  under 
the  law  of  1852. 

The  books  belonging  to  an  old  subscription  library  were  purchased 
and  many  volumes  were  donated.  A  store  room  was  rented.  Mrs.  F.  L. 
Saylor  and  Mrs.  P.  T.  O'Brien  gave  their  time  and  services  in  accession- 
ing and  preparing  the  books  for  circulation.  Mrs.  Eva  Gilmore  was 
chosen  librarian  and  the  library  was  opened  to  the  public  May  3,  1899. 

On  the  completion  of  the  new  city  building  in  the  fall  of  1900,  the 
library  was  moved  into  a  room  in  this  building.  In  the  spring  of  the 
following  year,  through  the  persistent  efforts  of  a  few  members  of  the 
Board,  various  reforms  were  carried  through.  The  arrangement  of  the 
room  was  altered  and  the  public  was  given  free  access  to  the  shelves. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  41 

In  June,  it  was  decided  to  secure  a  trained  librarian  and  Miss  Nellie  B. 
Fatout  was  chosen  to  fill  the  position. 

The  gift  of  $1,000  by  the  American  Tin  Plate  Company  enabled  the 
Board  to  greatly  increase  the  number  of  volumes  in  the  library.  These 
now  number  4,500.  Five  daily  papers  and  forty  magazines  are  on  the 
subscription  list.  When  the  new  tax  levy  of  six  mills  goes  into  effect,  it 
is  expected  that  1,000  volumes  will  be  added  annually. 

The  books  are  arranged  according  to  the  decimal  classification  and 
a  dictionary  card  catalogue  is  practically  complete  to  date. 

In  the  fall  of  1901,  Mr.  Carnegie  offered  the  Elwood  Library  $25,000 
for  a  building.  In  spite  of  some  opposition  from  the  labor  unions,  this 
offer  was  accepted  and  the  usual  conditions  were  complied  with.  The 
amount  was  afterwards  increased  to  $30,000  and  the  building  is  now 
nearly  completed. 

Two  persons  are  regularly  employed,  the  librarian  and  an  assistant, 
each  working  fifty-six  hours  a  week.  Two  weeks*  time  is  given  for  the 
summer  vacation  in  addition  to  the  legal  holidays  during  the  year. 

The  Library  is  kept  open  from  9  A.  M.  to  9  p.  M.  on  all  week  days 
and  for  two  hours  on  Sunday.  Its  use  steadily  increases.  Special  work 
with  the  school  children  has  been  done  .by  means  of  picture  bulletins  and 
talks  given  by  the  librarian  at  the  schools.  The  local  papers  have  been 
very  willing  to  publish  items  of  library  interest  and  have  been  used 
extensively  in  advertising  new  books.  The  total  circulation  for  home  use 
for  the  year  ending  July  1,  1903,  was  31,551,  an  average  of  110  volumes 
per  day.  Juvenile  books  form  forty-five  per  cent,  of  the  circulation. 
The  patronage  of  the  reading  and  reference  rooms  has  been  large  and 
and  many  different  classes  of  people  are  reached  by  the  Hbrary. 

The  Library  Board  consists  of  fifteen  members,  elected  by  the  stock- 
holders. The  members  of  the  present  Board  are  as  follows:  C.  W. 
Bennett,  president;  Mrs.  John  M.  Rodefer,  vice-president;  Mrs.  F.  L. 
Saylor,  secretary;  J.  A.  Hunter,  treasurer;  Mrs.  A.  D.  Moffett,  Mrs. 
J.  H.  Elliott,  Mrs.  J.  W.  Call,  Mrs.  Florence  Leeson,  Mrs.  P.  T.  O'Brien, 
Mrs.  W.  H.  Jones,  E.  C.  DeHority,  C.  M.  Greenlee,  Dr.  H.  M.  Brown, 
Joseph  A.  Field,  John  Finan,  Jr. 


42  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

EVANSVILLE. 
WiLLARD   Library. 

Willard  Carpenter,  founder  of  Willard  Library,  Evansville,  Indiana, 
Was  born  in  Stafford,  Orange  county,  Vermont,  March  15th,  1803,  and 
died  in  Evansville,  November  6th,  1883.  On  August  23rd,  1876,  Mr.  Car- 
penter conveyed  by  a  deed  of  trust  real  estate  in  the  city  of  Evansville 
of  the  value  of  $200,000  to  a  board  of  trustees  for  the  purpose  of  estab- 
lishing a  public  park,  library,  and  gallery  of  art,  free  for  all  inhabitants 
of  the  city.  Subsequently  a  board  of  trustees  incorporated  under  the 
name  of  Willard  Library.  Mr.  Carpenter  devoted  the  latter  years  of  his 
life  in  constructing  a  library  building  paid  for  out  of  the  property  con- 
veyed, costing  $75,000. 

The  library  contains  29,000  volumes  to  which  is  added  yearly  500 
volumes.  The  library  is  located  in  the  center  of  the  city  in  a  public  park 
containing  eight  acres.  It  was  opened  to  the  public  March  18th,  1885. 
The  library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.  to  6  P.  m.  daily,  and  Sunday  afternoons 
for  reading.  It  has  a  yearly  circulation  of  68,000;  a  daily  average  of  200. 
Fifty  standard  magazines  are  taken.  The  Poole  system  of  classification 
is  followed.  Three  librarians  are  in  charge,  serving  eight  hours  a  day, 
with  one  month  vacation  during  the  year.  The  public  does  not  have 
access  to  the  shelves.  The  gross  income  of  the  library,  derived  from 
rents,  amounts  to  $6,000  per  annum.  The  library  is  not  aided  by  any 
public  taxation.  The  art  gallery  feature  contemplated  by  the  donor 
has  never  been  realized,  except  in  part,  for  want  of  funds.  No  special 
Work  is  done.  The  names  of  the  members  of  the  Board  of  Trustees  are: 
Hon.  Thomas  E.  Garvin,  president;  Otto  F.  Jacobi,  treasurer;  Robert 
D.  Richardson,  secretary;  Alexander  Gilchrist,  Samuel  G.  Evans  and 
John  H.  Foster.  Vacancies  on  the  board  are  filled  by  the  trustees.  Miss 
Otilda  M.  Goslee  is  the  librarian,  with  Miss  Kate  Imbush  and  Mrs.  Mary 
0.  Flower  assistant  librarians.  The  building  consists  of  two  main  floors 
and  a  basement,  with  lobby  and  reading  room  adjoining.  The  city  of 
Evansville  has  a  population  of  70,000.  Trustees  serve  without  compen- 
sation. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  43 

FORT  WAYNE. 
Free  Public  Library  of  Fort  Wayne. 

In  1894,  The  Free  Public  Library  of  Fort  Wayne  was  established,  in 
accordance  with  the  library  act  of  1881,  as  the  result  of  the  intelligent 
and  energetic  efforts  of  the  Woman's  Club  League,  which  in  the  begin- 
ning of  its  existence  determined  that  a  prominent  part  of  its  work  should 
be  to  secure  the  establishment,  in  Fort  Wayne,  now  numbering  50,000 
inhabitants,  of  a  public  library  commensurate  with  its  needs.  They  took 
legal  advice  as  to  what  law  it  would  be  best  to  organize  under,  gained 
the  hearty  co-operation  of  the  school  trustees,  and  obtained  the  signa- 
tures of  the  members  of  the  various  clubs  and  of  many  other  citizens  to 
petitions  asking  that  a  tax  be  levied  for  library  purposes.  The  petitions 
were  presented  to  the  city  council,  July  25th,  1893,  and  were  promptly 
granted. 

The  Club  League  turned  over  to  the  new  library  117  books, 
which  it  had  collected  for  its  own  members,  and  also  the  rooms  which 
had  been  granted  for  its  use  in  the  City  Hall.  The  Allen  County  Teach- 
er's Association  gave  it's  library  of  800  volumes.  The  Public  Schools 
gave  1,028  volumes;  1414  volumes  were  purchased  and  247  volumes  of 
public  documents  were  given  by  various  parties,  making  in  all  3,606  vol- 
umes. Mrs.  S.  C.  Hoffman  was  appointed  hbrarian  with  Mrs.  J.  M. 
Evans  as  assistant.  When,  with  the  assistance  of  several  volunteers 
from  the  Club  League,  the  books  were  catalogued  in  accordance  with 
the  Dewey  classification,  on  the  evening  of  January  28,  1895,  the  library 
was  formally  opened  and  the  next  morning  the  issuing  of  books  began. 
To  name  all  the  ladies  who  took  active  part  in  this  work  would  be  to 
transcribe  the  membership  rolls  of  the  club.  Their  influence  on  the 
library  is  still  felt. 

Four  ladies  nominated  by  the  League  and  four  gentlemen 
chosen  by  the  school  trustees,  with  the  librarian  as  a  member  ex-officio, 
constitute  a  committee  for  the  selection  of  books.  The  library  grew 
so  rapidly  that  in  September,  1895,  it  was  moved  to  more  commodi- 
ous quarters  at  the  comer  of  Wayne  and  Clinton.  A  reading  room  was 
then  opened  which  at  once  justified  its  existence.  The  library's  source 
of  income  is  a  tax  levied  by  the  school  trustees.  The  year  just  closing 
(1903)  the  rate  has  been  five  cents  on  the  hundred  dollars  and  the  total 
expenditure  for  all  purposes  was,  for  the  year  ending  July  31,  1903, 
$8,736,51.    In  1898,  the  school  board  bought  as  a  permanent  home  for  the 


44  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

library  the  property  at  the  southwest  corner  of  Wayne  and  Webster 
streets.  The  new  quarters  were  a  great  improvement,  but  soon  it 
became  evident  that  a  larger  building  and  one  specially  adapted  to  library 
work  would   in   a  little  while  be  indispensable. 

The  Woman's  Club  League  again  took  up  the  work  and,  with 
the  co-operation  of  the  mayor  and  some  of  the  prominent  business  men 
of  the  city,  obtained  from  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  a  gift  of  $75,000 
for  a  library  building  conditioned  only  on  an  appropriation  of  $7,500 
per  year  for  the  support  of  it.  The  gift  was  accepted  and  a  very 
large  and  stately  building  of  imposing  appearance  was  erected, 
on  the  property  purchased  by  the  school  board,  and  was  ready  for 
occupancy  January  1,  1904.  On  the  completion  of  the  building  Mr. 
Carnegie  added  $15,000  more  to  his  already  liberal  gift,  making  a 
total  gift  of  $90,000.  During  the  erection  of  the  building  the  library 
found  a  comfortable  temporary  home  in  the  Elektron.  It  has  been 
practicable  to  give  the  frequenters  of  the  library  free  access  to 
the  books,  an  innovation  that  has  been  helpful  to  all  parties.  One  thou- 
sand to  twelve  hundred  volumes  have  been  added  to  the  library  each 
year  by  purchase.  The  whole  number,  including  public  documents,  is 
now  17,510.  For  the  reading  room  seventy-seven  magazines  and  nine- 
teen newspapers  are  subscribed  for.  The  library  is  open  twelve  hours 
per  day  for  six  days  in  the  week ;  the  reading  room  on  Sundays  from  2  to 
5  P.  M.  The  number  of  books  taken  out  in  1903,  to  December  26,  was 
53,302,  a  daily  average  of  175.  These  figures  do  not  include  the  number 
of  volumes  read  or  consulted  in  the  reference  room,  which  is  very  consi- 
derable and  growing.  The  total  number  of  persons  using  the  reading 
room  during  the  year  1903  was  not  less  than  24,000,  averaging  seventy- 
six  daily. 

A  comparison  of  the  circulation  for  the  year  ending  July  31, 
1896— the  first  year  for  which  there  are  full  returns — with  that  for  the 
present  year,  1903,  shows  an  increase  of  14,051 — 35  per  cent.  In  the 
former  year  there  were  issued  34,553  works  of  fiction;  in  the  latter, 
44,715,  an  increase  of  10,162—29  per  cent.  Thus  it  appears  that  the 
increase  of  novel  reading  has  not  kept  pace  with  the  circulation.  On 
the  other  hand,  during  the  same  period,  the  circulation  of  works  on  phil- 
osophy, fine  arts,  science,  history  and  the  useful  arts,  which  in  1895-96 
was  eleven  per  cent  of  the  total,  in  the  present  year  has  been  over  six- 
teen per  cent,  showing  that  while  novel  reading  has  relatively  declined, 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  45 

the  reading  of  the  best  books  has  increased.  The  number  of  borrowers 
is  now  8,301.  The  privilege  of  borrowing  however,  is  not  limited  to 
citizens  of  Fort  Wayne.  Residents  of  Allen  county  outside  the  city 
limits,  who  pay  city  taxes,  and  all  others  who  pay  one  dollar  per  year  for 
each  card  taken  out,  are  entitled  to  the  full  and  free  use  of  the  library. 
In  addition  to  their  ordinary  labors  the  librarian  and  her  assistant  do  a 
great  deal  of  work  for  pupils  in  the  public  schools  and  for  other  children, 
and  members  of  the  literary  clubs,  in  the  selection  of  books  and  in  direct- 
ing them  to  the  best  authorities  on  the  subjects  they  wish  to  investigate. 
A  bulletin  of  the  books  received  is  prepared  each  month  and  the  card 
catalogue  is  kept  up  to  date.  The  present  library  force  consists  of  five 
persons.  The  hours  of  labor  are  for  the  day  staff  forty-eight  per  week; 
for  the  evening  assistant  twenty-one;  each  person  has  a  yearly  vacation 
of  two  weeks.  The  first  librarian,  Mrs.  S.  C.  Hoffman,  after  two  years' 
service  resigned  and  was  succeeded  by  Miss  Clara  M.  Fowler,  at  whose 
death,  in  1898,  the  present  librarian,  Miss  Margaret  M.  Colerick,  was 
appointed.  The  entire  management  and  control  of  the  library  is  vested 
in  the  Board  of  School  Trustees,  the  present  members  of  which  are 
Messrs.  Charles  S.  Bash,  Allan  Hamilton  and  Eugene  Smith. 


FRANKFORT. 
Frankfort  Public  Library. 

In  1882,  the  Frankfort  Public  Library  was  in  a  dark  back  room  of  a 
law  office  and  was  open  to  the  public  two  afternoons  in  the  week  from 
4  P.  M.  to  6  P.  M. 

About  1888,  the  few  hundred  books,  which  were  mostly  remnants  of 
the  McClure  and  Township  libraries,  were  installed  in  a  small  room  of  the 
new  city  building  with  the  city  council  as  the  Library  Board.  A  hbrarian 
was  appointed  and  the  Library  was  open  two  afternoons  each  week. 
The  new  High  School  building,  erected  in  1892,  provided  the  present  quar- 
ters for  the  Hbrary,  which,  until  the  Spring  of  1903,  was  open  to  the 
public  each  afternoon  of  the  week  during  the  months  from  October  to 
March,  and  two  afternoons  in  the  week  during  the  months  from  April  to 
September. 

After  its  removal  into  the  High  School  building  the  club  women 
championed  the  cause  of  the  library  and  were  instrumental  in  persuading 
Mrs.  Virginia  Stein,  librarian  of  the  Lafayette  Public  Library,  to  come  to 


46  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

Frankfort  for  a  few  days  and  instruct  the  librarian  in  the  reorganization 
of  the  library.  At  this  time  the  Dewey  classification,  the  Cutter  author 
table,  and  the  Newark  charging  system  were  adopted,  an  author  and 
classed  finding  list  begun,  and  the  library  made  a  reference  library  as 
well  as  a  circulating  library. 

In  the  Spring  of  1903  the  Public  Library  was  turned  over  to  the 
School  Board,  which  constitutes  the  Library  Board  and  since  that  time  it 
has  been  open  to  the  public  daily  from  8:00  a.  m.  to  5:00  P.  M.  The  rate 
of  taxation  has  always  been  two-fifths  of  a  mill  on  the  dollar. 

Reference  work  is  done  for  the  High  School  students  and  club 
women.  No  special  work  is  done  for  the  children  except  the  bulletin  of 
current  events. 

The  accession  book  shows  two  thousand  volumes,  and  the  average 
daily  circulation  is  fifty  volumes. 

The  following  are  names  of  librarians  and  dates  of  administration  so 
far  as  they  could  be  ascertained: 

0.  E.  Brumbaugh,  (date  not  known.) 

Kate  Gordon,  1887-1891. 

Belle  Sheridan,  1891-Nov.,  1894. 

Anna  G.  Hubbard,  Nov. -1894,  -  Jan. -1897. 

Cora  Cooper,  Jan. -1897,  -  April-1903. 

Ethel  Brumbaugh,  April-1903,  to  date. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  47 

FRANKLIN. 
Franklin  College  Library. 

Prom  the  beginning  in  1834,  to  1869,  all  the  books  belonging  to  the 
library  could  easily  be  placed  in  a  case  of  shelves  six  feet  wide  and  seven 
feet  high.  And  many  of  the  volumes  were  old  and  scarcely  standard, 
although  some  of  them  were  excellent.  In  1872,  under  the  new  regime 
there  was  an  earnest  attempt  to  build  up  a  library.  Many  old  students 
agreed  to  give  from  one  dollar  to  five  dollars  a  year  with  which  to  buy 
books,  and  the  president,  as  he  travelled  among  the  churches,  did  not 
hesitate  to  ask  for  gifts  of  books  worth  asking  for.  In  this  way  he 
brought  in  several  hundred  volumes.  By  such  means  as  these  the  college 
was,  after  ten  years,  able  to  report  more  than  three  thousand  volumes  in 
its  library.  As  yet  it  was  not  open  every  day,  and  there  was  no  system- 
atic classification.  Still  the  students  showed  considerable  appreciation, 
especially  of  history,  v/hich  was  the  most  largely  represented  subject. 
After  ten  years  more,  or  in  1892,  the  college  catalogue  reported  more 
than  6,000  volumes. 

A  good  room  in  the  Central  building  is  given  to  the  library.  It  is  open 
each  day,  a  librarian  and  an  assistant  are  selected  by  the  Board  of  Direct- 
ors, a  good  reading  room  is  operated  in  connection  with  the  library  and  the 
decimal  classification  was  adopted  and  put  into  operation  in  1895.  To 
Professor  R.  J.  Thompson  is  due  most  of  the  credit  for  organizing  the 
library.  She  studied  the  system  in  the  Morgan  Park  Theological  Seminary 
and  afterwards  in  the  University  of  Chicago,  and  with  patience  and  per- 
severance brought  order  out  of  chaos.  By  this  time  the  Literary  Society 
libraries  were  incorporated  with  the  general  library,  and  added  not  a  lit- 
tle to  its  value.  The  work  of  cataloguing,  of  necessity  proceeded  slowly; 
but  the  card  cabinet  soon  began  to  be  appreciated  by  the  students  in  their 
research  in  special  lines.  At  this  time  too  the  periodicals  taken  for  the 
reading  tables  were  bound  as  the  volumes  were  completed,  and  when 
Poole's  index  was  added  these  periodical  volumes  were  much  in  demand 
and  have  been  ever  since.  At  the  end  of  ten  years  more,  1902,  the  num- 
ber of  volumes  was  reported  to  be  about  14,000,  and  the  number  of  mag- 
azines on  the  reading  tables  has  considerably  increased. 

From  almost  the  beginning,  different  friends,  some  of  them  in  Con- 
gress, sent  various  books  to  the  college.  Some  of  these,  such  as  the 
Proceedings  of  the  First  Congress,  American  State  Papers,  etc.,  at  the 
time  were  thought  to  be  of  little  value,  but  have  proven  to  be  very  valu- 


48  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

able  and  are  much  sought  after  by  newer  institutions.  When  Benjamin 
Harrison,  afterwards  president  of  the  United  States,  was  in  the  Senate, 
President  Stott  wrote  him  saying  that  whatever  in  the  way  of  books, 
maps,  charts,  etc.,  belonged  to  the  colleges,  he  would  be  glad  to  receive 
without  special  and  repeated  request.  This  led  to  the  districting  of  the 
state  among  the  senators  and  congressmen;  and  from  that  time  on  the 
government  has  regarded  the  college  as  one  of  its  depositories.  To  the 
casual  observer  these  volumes  seem  comparatively  worthless,  but  to  the 
student  seeking  particular  and  exact  information,  they  become  extremely 
useful. 

In  a  somewhat  like  way  President  Stott  became  interested  in  collect- 
ing documents  and  reports  of  the  state;  and  in  this  way  he  was  greatly 
assisted  by  Judge  D.  W.  Howe,  of  Indianapolis,  who  has  a  complete  set 
of  them.  It  might  be  supposed  that  such  books  as  these  composed  the 
bulk  of  the  library,  but  the  larger  part  of  the  books  are  such  as  are  of 
interest  to  the  general  reader,  being  bought  from  time  to  time  from  a 
fund  composed  for  the  most  part  of  students'  fees.  After  departmental 
collections  were  given  up,  it  became  the  custom  for  the  librarian  to  ask 
the  head  of  each  department  of  instruction  for  a  list  of  books  most  needed 
in  his  department,  and  purchases  were  made  from  these  Hsts.  In  this 
way,  to  a  considerable  extent,  the  library  has  been  built  up.  There  is  a 
small  library  fund,  the  interest  of  which  is  used  in  the  purchase  of  books, 
but  the  main  dependence  is  on  students'  fees.  A  special  effort  for  a  few 
years  past  has  been  to  complete  sets  of  important  periodicals.  At  this 
time  the  college  has  an  almost  complete  set  of  the  North  American,  the 
Atlantic  Monthly,  Littell's  Living  age,  the  Bibliotheca  Sacra,  and  the 
Edinburg  Review. 

It  should  be  noticed  that  a  smaller  choice  library  was  begun  by  Prof. 
J.  W.  Moncrief  when  he  had  charge  of  the  History  department.  He 
named  it  for  Freeman,  the  distinguished  historian,  secured  many  vol- 
umes from  the  authors,  and  made  a  fair  beginning  for  what  has  now 
become  a  valuable  collection  for  the  student  of  general  history. 

The  present  Hbrarian  is  Prof.  E.  S.  Gardiner,  and  his  assistant 
upon  whom  much  of  the  daily  work  devolves,  is  Miss  Francis  M.  Dean. 

The  new  library  building,  capable  of  shelving  50,000  volumes,  will 
soon  be  finished,  being  ready  for  dedication  in  connection  with  the  1904 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  49 

Commencement.    The  Reading  Room  will  also  be  in   the  new  building. 
The  cost  of  this  building  complete  and  furnished  will  be  $25,000. 

The  policy  of  the  library  management  is  to  keep  the  books  in  the  best 
condition  possible,  and  users  are  liable  for  damages,  but  the  shelves  are 
open  to  those  who  come  for  consultation.  The  conviction  is  clear  that  it 
is  worth  much  to  the  student  to  handle  the  books.  In  this  way  alone  can 
he  become  widely  acquainted  with  the  hundreds  of  volumes  that  he  will 
afterwards  need  in  his  work. 

It  might  also  be  added  that  the  use  of  the  library  for  consultation  is 
not  confined  to  the  students.  Any  one  who  will  conform  to  the  rules  is 
welcome  to  come  and  read.  There  are  many,  especially  from  the  High 
School  and  members  of  Literary  clubs,  who  avail  themselves  of  this 
privilege. 

W.  T.  Stott.  President. 


GOSHEN. 
Goshen  Public  Library. 

The  present  organization  of  the  Goshen  Public  Library  dates  from 
March,  1901,  when  it  took  advantage  of  the  Mummert  law  of  that  year 
and  succeeded  a  small  Public  Library  which  was  maintained  by  the  vari- 
ous Ladies*  Literary  Societies  of  the  city,  which  societies  are  therefore 
responsible  for  the  inception  of  library  work  in  this  city.  The  number  of 
volumes  at  present  is  5,286,  between  800  and  900  being  added  annually. 
Forty-four  current  magazines  are  taken  which  are  bound  and  placed  in 
the  reference  rooms  as  fast  as  the  volumes  are  completed.  Our  total 
annual  expenditure  is  $1,975  which  is  raised  by  a  six  mill  tax,  levied  under 
the  Mummert  law  under  which  we  were  organized. 

Our  total  circulation  since  the  opening  of  the  present  library  Janu- 
ary 15,  1903,  to  December  1,  1903,  was  24,104,  making  a  total  daily 
average  of  ninety.  There  are  2,051  borrowers'  cards  on  file,  this  being 
from  a  total  population  of  9,250,  and  but  four  of  these  are  country  bor- 
rowers who  pay  an  annual  fee  of  one  dollar. 

The  library  is  open  from  10:00  A.  M.  to  12  M.  and  from  2:00  P.  M. 
to  8:00  P.  M.  for  the  charging  of  books.  The  general  reading  rooms  re- 
main open  until  9:00  P.  M.  on  week  days  only.  Open  shelving  is  used  to 
which  the  public  has  access.  Especial  attention  is  given  to  children's 
work,  a  room  being  set  apart  for  their  use  and  the  children's  books  are 


50  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

on  open  shelves.  During  the  summer  months  the  schedules  of  work  of 
the  various  literary  clubs  are  obtained  and  especial  preparation  made  to 
assist  them  in  reference  work  during  the  ensuing  winter. 

Our  library  building  is  of  Bedford  stone  and  was  erected  in  1901-2, 
at  a  cost,  furnished,  of  $25,150.00,  in  addition  to  the  cost  of  the  lot  which 
was  raised  by  popular  subscription.  Twenty-five  thousand  dollars  of  the 
building  fund  was  received  from  Andrew  Carnegie. 

The  Library  is  in  charge  of  Mrs.  Ella  R.  Heatwole,  librarian;  Eliza- 
beth Li  Rockwell,  assistant,  and  the  following  Board  of  Trustees:  Presi- 
dent, Mr.  I.  O.  Wood;  Vice  President,  Mrs.  M.  E.  Mitchell;  Secretary, 
Mr.  H.  H.  Gortner;  Treasurer,  Mr.  D.  A.  Sanders;  Mrs.  F.  P.  Abbot, 
Mrs.  J.  M.  Bowser  and  Mr.  Frank  Kelly.       H.  H.  Gortner,  Sec'y. 


GREENCASTLE. 
Depauw  University  Library. 

The  * 'Depauw  University  Library,"  situated  at  Greencastle,  Indi- 
ana, had  its  beginning  in  1840,  when,  as  we  read  in  the  catalogue  of  that 
year,  *  'through  the  liberality  of  friends  of  the  institution  a  small  library 
containing  some  rare  and  valuable  books  had  been  collected.  The  library 
grew  very  slowly  for  many  years,  the  most  notable  additions  of  these 
early  days  being  through  the  Whitcomb  bequest,  by  which  the  library, 
in  1853,  came  into  possession  of  about  4,500  volumes  from  the  private 
library  of  Governor  Whitcomb,  then  but  lately  deceased.  This  was  a 
very  valuable  collection  of  books,  remarkable  in  its  day,  among  which 
were  found  many  rare  editions.  In  1882,  5,000  volumes  were  donated 
from  the  library  of  the  Hon.  Henry  S.  Lane.  In  1884  the  Hbrary  was 
moved  from  the  basement  of  East  College  to  its  present  quarters,  the 
the  third  floor  of  West  College,  which  had  been  fitted  up  to  receive  it. 
The  reading  room,  in  the  center,  is  a  large  one,  53x106  feet,  and  on  each 
side  of  this  room  are  the  stacks. 

The  departmental  libraries,  first  noticed  in  the  catalogue  of  1879, 
are  scattered  through  the  various  buildings.  The  total  number  of 
volumes  in  all  the  libraries  is  now  26,500.  The  increase  for  each  year 
varies  because  of  donations;  but  would  average  1,000  volumes  of  which 
about  100  volumes  are  bound  numbers  of  periodicals.  Ninety-eight 
periodicals  are  received  by  the  library.  The  annual  expenditure  varies, 
but  averages  $2,000.     Last  year,  1892-3,  it  was  much  more.    The  funds 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  51 

for  the  general  library  are  derived  from  an  annual  appropriation  by  the 
Board  of  Trustees,  and  the  departmental  libraries  are  sustained  by  fees 
and  endowment  funds. 

During  the  academic  year  the  general  library  is  open  each  week  day, 
except  holidays,  from  8:30  A.  M.  to  5:30  P.  M.,  allowing  an  hour  and  a 
half  mtermission  at  noon.  It  is  also  open  Monday,  Tuesday,  Thursday 
and  Friday  evenings  from  6:30  till  9:00.  The  departmental  libraries  are 
open  at  all  hours  that  the  college  buildings  are  open.  During  the  summer 
vacation,  the  library  is  open  only  two  afternoons  each  week.  The 
classification  used  in  the  library  is  a  modification  of  the  old  Perkins  sys- 
tem. It  is  not  a  circulating  library  except  to  professors  and  instructors. 
To  the  students  and  townspeople,  the  Hbrary  is  for  reference,  and  no 
books  are  taken  from  the  rooms.  Access  to  the  shelves  is  permitted 
upon  request.  There  being  but  a  limited  number  of  borrowers,  and 
practically  no  children  among  the  readers,  it  will  readily  be  seen  that 
the  work  would  proceed  on  different  lines  from  that  of  a  public  library, 
and  that  there  could  be  no  exact  data  of  the  use  made  of  books. 

Two  persons  are  employed  in  the  general  library,  and  the  professor 
in  charge  has  supervision  and  care  of  his  departmental  hbrary. 

Although  the  hbrary  had  its  beginning  in  1840,  it  was  not  of  suffi- 
cient size  or  importance  to  require  the  services  of  a  Hbrarian  until  1854, 
when  Samuel  Allen  Lattimore,  professor  of  Greek  in  the  University, 
was  given  charge  of  the  library.  He  continued  in  office  until  1859.  His 
successors  have  been  as  follows: 

Benj.  Thomas  Hoyt,  1859-66. 

John  A.  Raubilt,  1867-69 

John  Clark  Ridpath.  1869-79 

Edwin  Post,  1879-96 

Henry  B.  Longden  {pro  tempore),        1886-88 

Martha  B.  Longden,  1897-date 

In  1879  a  fire  almost  destroyed  West  College,  on  the  third  floor  of 

which  the  library  had  its  quarters,  and  a  great  number  of  the  books  were 

burned.    Among  them  were  many  of  the  valuable  Whitcomb  collection. 

It  was  about  this  time  that  the  library  and  laboratory  began  to  assume 

a  more  important  place  in  our  colleges   and  universities.      We  have 

endeavored  in  a  small  way  to  keep  pace  with  this  great  movement  which 

has  revolutionized  the  methods  of  higher  education. 

Martha  B.  Longden, 
Librarian. 


52  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

GREENCASTLE. 
The  Greencastle  Carnegie  Library. 

The  Public  Library  at  Greencastle,  Ind.,  began  as  a  school  library, 
when,  under  the  law  of  1881,  a  tax  was  levied  to  buy  books  for  the  use 
of  the  school  children.  It  was  housed  in  the  Assembly  Hall  of  the  high 
school  building  until  the  collection  of  books  outgrew  its  quarters.  Then, 
in  1891,  the  board  of  education  decided  to  throw  it  open  to  the  public. 
The  common  council  gave  aid  and  the  Public  Library  was  opened  on  the 
second  floor  of  a  business  block,  on  the  east  side  of  the  public  square, 
with  1,500  volumes  on  the  shelves. 

It  remained  there,  used  constantly  by  both  children  and  adults,  until 
all  the  available  space  was  occupied,  there  being  7,000  volumes  on  the 
shelves. 

In  1902,  chiefly  through  the  efforts  of  Mr.  D.  L.  Anderson,  treasurer 
of  the  school  board,  the  Carnegie  gift  was  secured.  Mr.  Carnegie  gave 
at  first  $10,000,  as  the  last  census  numbered  less  than  5,000  residents. 
This  was  promptly  accepted  by  the  common  council  and  the  name  was 
changed  to  the  Greencastle  Carnegie  Library.  A  lot  was  purchased  and 
in  a  letter  to  Mr.  Carnegie,  notifying  him  of  the  fact,  it  was  stated  that 
the  library  tax  in  Greencastle  was  already  more  than  $1,200,  and  could 
easily  be  increased  to  $1,500  per  year.  Upon  receipt  of  this  letter  Mr. 
Carnegie  sent  an  additional  $5,000. 

A  Building  Committee  was  appointed  by  the  council,  and  a  plan  was 
accepted  from  Patten  and  Miller,  architects,  of  Chicago,  for  a  $15,000 
building. 

The  cornerstone  was  laid  in  September,  1902.  The  building  was 
dedicated  with  appropriate  exercises  on  June  5,  1903,  and  thrown  open 
to  the  public  with  7,500  volumes  on  the  shelves,  besides  500  pamphlets. 
Twelve  monthly,  and  four  weekly  periodicals  are  taken. 

The  books  are  classified  by  the  Dewey  decimal  classification,  and 
both  the  printed  finding  Hst  and  a  dictionary  card  catalogue  are  used. 
Every  one  has  free  access  to  the  card  catalogue  and  to  the  shelves. 

The  Library  is  free  to  residents  of  the  town  and  of  Greencastle  town- 
ship; beyond  that,  persons  may  have  use  of  it  for  one  dollar  per  year. 
The  reading  rooms  are  free  to  every  one,  and  can  easily  accommodate 
fifty  readers  at  a  time.    The  children's  room  is  very  attractive  and 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  53 

special  care  is  taken  to  aid  and  to  interest  the  younger  readers;   birthday 
bulletins  and  pictures  being  often  used. 

The  whole  building  is  beautifully  decorated,  well  lighted,  elegantly 
furnished,  and  very  convenient. 

When  completed  Mr.  Carnegie  asked  for  an  itemized  account  of  ex- 
pense and  sent  an  additional  $5,000,  clearing  all  indebtedness,  making 
his  gift  in  all  $20,000. 

The  income  at  present  is  $1,500  per  year,  a  tax  of  seven  cents  on 
$100  being  levied  for  that  purpose. 

Library  hours  are  10  A.  m.  to  12  M.,  2:30  p.  M.  to  5:30  p.  M.  and  6:30 
p.  M.  to  9  p.  M.  every  day  except  Sundays  and  six  national  hoHdays. 

Miss  Belle  S.  Hanna  has  been  librarian  since  the  first  opening  in 
1891,  doing  all  the  work  without  assistance. 

The  highest  number  of  volumes  circulated  in  one  year  was  28,696. 
The  number  of  cards  in  actual  use  just  now  is  2,335.  Two  books  may  be 
taken  on  a  card  and  many  readers  avail  themselves  of  the  privilege. 

The  books  comprising  the  library  have  been  bought  with  great  care 
and  are  well  selected.  Those  in  history  and  literature  make  the  largest 
divisions.  Pubhc  school,  high  school,  academy  and  college  students  use 
the  hbrary  freely,  as  do  club  members  and  general  readers.  Public  de- 
mand is  for  a  higher  class  of  books  than  is  usual  in  a  small  place,  owing 
doubtless  to  the  influence  of  the  University,  everything  there  tend- 
ing toward  higher  education. 

Present  board  of  education:  President,  Dr.  E.  B.  Evans;  secretary. 
Dr.  0.  F.  Overstreet;  treasurer,  D.  L.  Anderson. 

Belle  S.  Hanna,  Librarian. 


54  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

GREENFIELD. 
Greenfield  Public  Library. 

The  Greenfield  Public  Library  was  organized  in  1898.  A  room  in  the 
new  High  School  building  had  been  built  especially  for  library  purposes 
and  in  this  room  were  placed  1,500  volumes  by  the  board  of  school  com- 
missioners of  the  city  of  Greenfield.  The  doors  were  thrown  open  to 
the  public  January  5th,  1898.  Subscriptions  to  ten  magazines  were  sent 
in  and  as  the  issues  appeared  they  were  placed  upon  the  reading  table 
to  be  used  by  the  patrons  of  the  Library  while  in  the  room,  but  not  to  be 
circulated. 

The  first  librarian  was  Miss  Minnie  Hughes,  who  served  most  faith- 
fully for  three  years.  During  the  last  year  it  was  found  necessary  to 
employ  an  assistant,  and  Miss  Manie  Handy  was  appointed.  Miss 
Hughes  resigned  in  March,  1901,  and  Miss  Handy  was  appointed  librarian 
in  her  stead,  and  is  now  serving  in  that  capacity. 

The  library  fund  for  each  year  is  about  $1,000,  and  since  the  date  of 
the  organization  about  400  volumes  have  been  added  each  year,  including 
books  of  fiction,  biography,  history  science  and  other  literature.  The 
number  of  volumes  on  the  shelves  and  in  circulation  at  the  present  time 
is  3,000.  Twenty-four  of  the  very  best  magazines  pubHshed  appear 
on  the  reading  table.  The  issues  for  the  past  six  years  have  been  bound 
and  placed  on  the  shelves  to  be  circulated  as  are  the  other  books. 

The  average  number  of  volumes  loaned  each  day  is  fifty  and  the 
average  number  used  in  the  reading  room  seventy-five.  The  present 
members  of  the  school  board  are  Mr.  J.  W.  Harrell,  president;  Mr. 
J.  S.  Jackson,  secretary,  and  Mr.  George  H.  Cooper,  treasurer. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  55 

GREENSBURG. 
Greensburg  Public  Library. 

Nothwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for 
historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning 
this  library. 


HAMMOND. 
Hammond  Public  Library. 

For  many  years  Hammond  had  felt  the  need  of  a  public  library  and 
reading  room,  but  nothing  definite  was  done  until  the  Shakespeare  Club, 
an  organization  of  eighteen  wide-awake  school  teachers,  took  the  matter 
in  hand.  They  bought  forty-nine  books.  They  sold  membership  cards 
to  all  who  desired  the  privilege  of  reading  those  books,  and  with  the 
money  thus  obtained,  new  books  were  purchased.  In  June,  1903,  the 
Club  turned  the  books  over  to  the  city  and  a  Public  Library  was  organ- 
ized according  to  the  laws  of  Indiana.  Its  first  home  was  in  Miss 
Bloomhoff 's  millinery  parlors,  and  Miss  Bloomhoff  was  appointed  Lib- 
rarian. 

In  January,  1904,  the  Library  was  moved  to  the  Chicago  Telephone 
Building  on  Rimbach  Avenue.  The  room  is  open  to  the  public  every 
afternoon  and  evening  except  Sundays  and  legal  hoHdays. 

At  present  there  are  800  volumes  in  the  Library,  classified  according 
to  the  Dewey  classification.  A  number  of  the  best  current  magazines 
are  received. 

Much  interest  is  felt  by  the  people  in  general,  but  by  the  children 
particularly,  who  come  from  all  parts  of  the  town  to  get  books. 

The  Library  Board  consists  of  Dr.  Howat,  president;  Mrs.  Minnie 
Ibach,  vice-president;  Miss  Rena  Ames,  secretary;  Dr.  Eleanore  Scull, 
A.  Murray  Turner  and  Lawrence  Becker.  The  Librarian  is  Miss  Marie 
Hansen. 

The  income  is  derived  from  city  taxation  and  private  subscriptions. 


NOTE :    After  the  copy  for  the  above  went  to  the  printer  Hammoad  received 
a  g-if t  from  Andrew  Carnegie  of  $35,000. 


56  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

HANOVER. 
The  Hanover  College  Library. 

The  first  mention  found  of  any  library  in  connection  with  Hanover 
Academy,  is  in  the  winter  of  1829-30.  Dr.  John  Matthews,  professor- 
elect  of  the  Theological  seminaiy,  while  soliciting  funds  for  the  support 
of  the  second  teacher,  received  a  gift  of  "78  volumes  for  the  Library." 
These,  in  all  probability,  went  with  the  Seminary  on  its  removal  to  New 
Albany. 

In  1831,  Dr.  Crow  visited  the  East,  '  'ferreting  out  the  benevolent, ' ' 
and  in  addition  to  financial  aid,  brought  back  *  'nearly  100  volumes  for  the 
Library. ' '  This  donation  is  recorded  in  the  first  catalogue,  1832-33.  The 
next  notice  is  in  1834,  when  the  library  contained  about  2,000  volumes. 

From  that  time  down  to  the  present  the  collection  of  books  has  con- 
stantly grown  until,  if  the  Society  Libraries  which  are  used  in  con- 
nection with  the  College  Library  proper,  are  included,  the  total  of  bound 
volumes  is  somewhere  in  the  neighborhood  of  15,000,  besides  a  good  many 
thousands  of  unbound  pamphlets.  There  has  been  no  one  time  when  a 
large  number  of  books  has  been  added.  The  increase  in  later  years, 
however,  has  been  steady,  and  averages  from  300  to  400  volumes  per 
year.  Most  are  purchased,  'though  some  are  given  by  friends  and  are 
much  valued  not  only  for  intrinsic  worth,  but  also  for  the  interest  that 
has  stimulated  the  donors. 

The  vast  majority  of  the  books  are  of  very  decided  worth.  The 
McLean  Library  consists  of  a  good  many  hundreds  of  rare  old  volumes 
of  the  classics,  philosophy,  history,  theology  and  the  like,  which  were 
presented  by  the  family  of  Rev.  Mr.  McLean,  a  Presbyterian  minister 
who  died  many  years  ago.  Great  old  quartos  and  beautiful  little  duo- 
decimos, in  quaint  type  and  binding,  stand  thick  on  the  shelves  of  this 
collection.  A  great  part  of  the  rest  of  the  books  have  been  bought  or 
given  in  more  recent  times,  and  the  sections  are  remarkably  well  filled 
with  the  best  works  on  philosophy,  economics,  politics,  history,  biog- 
raphy, science  and  the  like.  It  would  not  be  easy  to  find  another  library 
of  like  size,  that  is  so  carefully  selected  and  of  such  high  average  worth. 
The  sets  of  most  of  the  leading  magazines  of  this  country  are  almost  or 
entirely  complete. 

Of  course,  this  is  a  college  library  and  it  is  used  exclusively  by  the 
faculty  and  students  and  resident  graduates.  The  Librarian  is  Miss 
Leila  Garrit,  who  has  served  for  many  years,  on  a  small  salary,  such  as 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  57 

the  college  can  afford  to  pay.  The  library  is  kept  open  during  the  morn- 
ing hours  of  the  college  working  days,  and  under  proper  regulations  it  is 
accessible  at  other  times.  The  income  of  the  Library  is  mainly  from  a 
small  fee  charged  each  student,  and  from  some  other  sources  connected 
with  the  college  work. 

The  students  and  faculty  use  the  Library  very  liberally.  They  have 
access  to  the  shelves,  under  restrictions  that  are  appropriate.  Assigned 
literary  work  is  aided  by  the  advice  of  the  Librarian  as  to  books  and 
other  sources  of  information. 

Down  to  the  present,  the  Library  has  occupied  rooms  from  time  to 
time  in  the  building  known  as  Classic  Hall.  At  present  the  main  col- 
lection is  in  a  very  large  and  lofty  room  of  this  sort.  But  the  Library  is 
in  full  sight  of  splendid  accommodations.  The  late  Thomas  A.  Hen- 
dricks, vice-president  of  the  United  States,  was  a  graduate  of  Hanover 
College,  and  within  the  last  year  his  widow,  Mrs.  Eliza  C.  Hendricks, 
(now  deceased),  gave  the  college  $25,000  for  the  erection  of  a  Hbrary 
building  as  a  memorial  to  her  deceased  husband.  This  structure  is,  at 
this  writing  well  under  way,  and  will  be  formally  opened,  not  later  than 
the  commencement,  June,  1904.  It  occupies  a  site  on  the  campus,  over- 
looking, from  a  height  of  500  feet,  the  Ohio  river  and  its  neighboring  hills 
and  ravines  and  valley.  The  location  is  magnificent.  The  building 
itself  will  be  exceedingly  handsome,  and  will  provide  the  very  best  appli- 
ances in  a  modern  library.  The  space  will  be  ample  for  the  growth  of  the 
Library  for  a  very  long  period. 


HARTFORD  CITY. 
Hartford  City  Public  Library. 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for  a 
historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning 
this  library. 


58  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

HUNTINGTON. 
City  Free  Library. 

April  24th,  1889,  the  School  Board,  at  a  special  meeting,  estabHshed 
a  free  public  library  in  connection  with  the  schools  in  this  city.  There- 
upon the  Huntington  Public  School  Library  Association  surrendered  all 
its  books,  pamphlets,  etc.,  to  the  new  Free  Library  of  the  Public  Schools, 
and  the  U.  S.  government  transferred  all  of  its  publications  on  deposit 
with  the  former  association  to  the  latter  and  made  it  the  authorized 
depository  for  its  publications  in  the  future. 

The  management  of  the  Library  was  placed  in  the  hands  of  a  library 
committee  composed  of  the  superintendent  of  the  schools  and  two  per- 
sons from  each  ward  to  be  appointed  by  the  school  board.  Miss  Maggie 
Daily  was  elected  librarian,  in  which  capacity  she  served  faithfully  until 
August,  1898.  Upon  her  resignation.  Miss  Lyle  Harter  was  appointed 
to  fill  the  vacancy  and  now  serves  with  Miss  Winifred  F.  Ticer  as  her 
assistant. 

In  1902,  Mr.  Carnegie  offered  to  the  city  of  Huntington  $25,000  for  the 
erection  of  a  Hbrary  building.  The  offer  was  accepted  and  the  building 
was  erected  at  once  on  a  lot  centrally  located,  which  was  owned  by  the 
city  and  presented  for  that  purpose. 

The  library  contains  15,000  volumes  at  present,  including  the  Govern- 
ment publications,  and  the  public  has  free  access  to  the  shelves.  The 
reading  room  has  a  seating  capacity  of  sixty-six  and  is  supplied  with 
sixty  current  periodicals.  The  children's  room  is  one  of  the  most  attract- 
ive in  the  library. 

In  a  city  of  11,000,  with  about  2,500  borrowers,  the  circulation  for 
the  past  year  was  29,569,  showing  an  increase  of  4,569  over  the  previous 
year  and  a  large  excess  in  the  circulation  of  books  in  the  non-fiction 
classes  over  the  year  before. 

The  Library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.,  until  9  P.  M.,  excepting  Sundays 
and  holidays. 

The  Library  Board  at  the  present  time  consists  of  the  following 
members:  Mrs.  Edna  B.  Felter,  chairman;  Mr.  J.  W.  Ford,  treasurer; 
Mr.  M.  L.  Spencer,  secretary;  Mr.  W.  P.  Hart,  Mr.  Charles  K.  Lucas, 
Mr.  S.  E.  Cook,  Mrs.  Ida  Reichenbach  and  Mrs.  Anna  Balfour. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  59 

INDIANA  LIBRARY  ASSOCIATION. 

The  librarians  of  Indiana  were  among  the  first  to  form  a  state 
association.  From  inspiration  and  suggestion  received  in  the  national 
association  of  librarians  Miss  Mary  E.  Ahem,  the  present  editor  of 
* 'Public  Libraries, "  at  that  time  assistant  state  librarian,  issued  a  call 
to  the  librarians  of  the  state  to  meet  at  IndianapoHs  during  the  holiday 
week,  of  the  year  1891,  to  discuss  ways  and  means  of  co-operation  among 
the  librarians  of  the  state,  to  awaken  a  deeper  interest  in  libraries 
among  those  who  should  be  their  best  supporters,  and  to  determine  the 
desirabihty  and  expediency  of  establishing  a  permanent  organization. 
In  response  to  this  call  the  following  persons  met  in  the  State  Library 
December  30,  1891: 

Mary  E.  Ahem,  assistant  state  librarian,  Indianapolis. 

Eliza  G.  Browning,  assistant  Hbrarian,  Indianapolis  Public  Library. 

Arthur  Cunningham,  librarian,  Indiana  State  Normal  School,  Terre 
Haute. 

Jacob  P.  Dunn,  state  librarian,  Indianapolis. 

Louise  Maxwell,  assistant  librarian,  Indiana  University,  Bloomington. 

William  W.  Spangler,  librarian,  Indiana  University,  Bloomington. 

Miss  Shank. 

Elizabeth  Day  Swan,  librarian,  Purdue  University  Lafayette. 

E.  B.  Thompson,  librarian,  Wabash  College,  Crawfordsville. 

It  was  unanimously  decided  to  organize  by  the  adoption  of  the  follow- 
ing constitution: 

1.  The  Association  shall  be  called  The  Library  Association  of 
Indiana. 

2.  Any  person  interested  in  promoting  the  library  interests  of  Indi- 
ana may  become  a  member  on  payment  to  the  treasurer  of  the  annual 
membership  fee  of  fifty  cents. 

3.  The  officers  of  the  Association  shall  be  a  president,  vice-presi- 
dent, secretary  and  treasurer,  elected  annually,  who  shall  together  con- 
stitute the  executive  board,  which  shall  have  power  to  act  for  the  Associ- 
ation in  intervals  between  the  meetings. 

4.  A  regular  meeting  of  the  Association  shall  be  held  in  the  State 
Library  during  the  week  of  the  State  Teachers'  Association  and  at  such 
other  times  and  places  as  may  be  fixed  by  the  executive  board. 

5.  No  officer,  committee  or  member  of  the  Association  shall  incur 


60  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

any  expense  in  its  name,  nor  shall  the  treasurer  make  any  payment, 
unless  authorized  by  specific  vote  of  the  executive  board. 

6.  No  person  shall  be  liable  for  any  dues  except  the  annual  member- 
ship fee. 

The  avowed  objects  of  the  Association  were:  (1)  To  stimulate  Hbrary 
interests  by  means  of  addresses,  articles  in  newspapers,  circulation  of 
printed  matter,  action  of  educational  and  other  bodies  Hkely  to  be  inter- 
ested and  by  other  means  at  its  disposal;  (2)  To  secure  from  the  legis- 
lature a  revision  of  existing  laws  affecting  libraries,  in  order  to  make 
the  libraries  what  they  should  be,  valuable  adjuncts  to  the  school  system 
and  to  serve  as  the  people's  colleges  throughout  the  state. 

To  serve  as  the  first  officers  under  the  above  constitution  and  to 
further  the  objects  of  the  Association,  Mr.  E.  B.  Thompson  was  chosen 
president,  Mr.  Arthur  Cunningham,  vice-president,  and  Miss  M.  E. 
Ahern,  secretary  and  treasurer. 

The  first  annual  meeting  of  the  Association  was  held  in  the  State 
House,  December  27,  1892,  when  the  following  program  was  presented: 

MORNING  SESSION. 

Address  of  the  President, Prof.  E.  B.  Thompson. 

The  Library  and  the  Public  Schools, Supt.  R.  A.  Ogg. 

Library  Architecture, Miss  E.  G.  Browning. 

AFTERNOON  SESSION. 

Library  Legislation, J.  P.  Dunn. 

Access  to  Shelves, Miss  E.  D.  Swan. 

Classification  and  Shelf  Arrangement, W.  W.  Spangler. 

The  Association,  during  the  twelve  years  of  its  existence,  has  grad- 
ually grown  in  strength  and  influence,  though  its  membership  has  never 
been  large.  Like  other  similar  organizations  it  has  had  to  withstand  the 
test  of  internal  differences  of  opinion  as  to  its  purpose  and  management. 
These  differences,  however,  have  always  been  adjusted  in  a  true  dem- 
ocratic spirit  and  have  not,  therefore,  seriously  interferred  with  the 
real  work  of  the  body,  as  the  annual  increase  of  membership  will  testify. 

The  original  constitution  was  naturally  a  simple,  tenative  instrument. 
Six  years  of  experience  proved  the  necessity  of  a  more  definite  expres- 
sion of  the  purpose,  aim,  and  methods  of  the  organization,  which  led  to 
a  thorough  revision  of  the  constitution.    This  was  adopted  December  29, 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  61 

1897,  and  again  slightly  amended  in  1903.  It  will  be  noticed  that  the 
name  was  somewhat  changed,  and  that  it  became  distinctively  a  state 
association  of  librarians  with  affiliated  or  associate  members. 

CONSTITUTION. 
I.     This  organization  shall  be  called  The  Indiana  Library  Association. 
II.     Its  object  shall  be  to  promote  the  welfare  of  libraries  by   stimu- 
lating public  interest  in  founding  and  improving  them,  by  securing  need- 
ed legislation,   by  furthering  such  co-operative  work  as  shall  improve 
results  and  render  library  administration  more  economical,  by  exchanging 
views  and    recommendations,  and   by    advancing  the  common  interests 
of  librarians,  trustees  and  others  engaged  in  library  work. 
III.     1.    Any  librarian,  trustee  or  other  person  actively  indentified  with 
public  library  work  who  is  a  resident  of  the  state,  may  become  a  mem- 
ber of  this  Association  by  signing  the  Constitution  and  paying  an  annual 
fee  of  fifty  cents,  which  fee   shall  be  due  at  the  opening  session  of 
each  annual  meeting. 

2.  Any  person  may  become  an  associate  member  with  all  the 
privileges  of  an  active  member,  except  voting  and  office  holding,  by  the 
payment  of  annual  dues  of  fifty  cents. 

3.  Deliquency  in  the  payment  of  fees  shall  work  suspension  of 
membership. 

IV.  1.  The  officers  of  this  Association  shall  be  a  president,  who  shall 
be  an  active  librarian,  a  vice-president,  a  secretary  and  a  treasurer,  to 
be  elected  at  the  annual  meeting  and  to  serve  until  the  adjournment 
of  the  meetings  at  which  their  successors  are  elected. 

2.  In  the  election  of  officers  each  library  shall  be  considered  a  unit 
and  shall  cast  but  one  vote. 

3.  The  duties  of  these  officers  shall  be  such  as  usually  devolve 
upon  such  officers  in  similar  organizations. 

4.  At  each  annual  meeting  the  secretary  and  the  treasurer  shall 
submit  written  reports  of  their  acts  during  their  term  of  office;  said 
reports  shall  be  referred  to  a  committee  of  three,  appointed  by  the 
Association,  who  shall  examine  them  and  report  them  back  to  the 
Association  with  recommendations  for  their  disposal. 

V.  The  officers  of  the  Association  together  with  the  president  of  the 
preceeding  year,  shall  constitute  an  executive  board,  whose  duty  it  shall 
be  to  arrange  for  the  next  annual  meeting  and  to  act  between  meetings 


62  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

of  the  Association  on  all  other  matters  on  which  any  three  of  them  may 
agree.  The  secretary  shall  keep  a  record  of  the  proceedings  of  this 
board  and  make  the  same  a  part  of  his  or  her  annual  report. 

VI.  No  officer,  committee  or  member  shall  incur  any  expense  in  th  e 
name  of  the  Association,  nor  shall  the  treasurer  make  any  payment  of 
moneys,  unless  authorized  by  a  specific  vote  of  the  Association  or  of 
the  executive  board. 

VII.  The  annual  meeting  shall  be  held  in  Indianapolis  during  Christ- 
mas holiday  week  unless  otherwise  ordered  by  a  vote  of  the  Association. 
VIII.  Special  meetings  shall  be  called  by  the  president  on  request  of 
ten  or  more  hbraries;  at  which  only  business  specified  in  the  call  may  be 
transacted.  A  copy  of  the  call  shall  be  sent  to  every  member  at  least 
ten  days  before  the  meeting. 

IX.     Twelve  active  members  shall  constitute  a  quorum. 
X.    This  constitution  may  be  amended  at  any  annual  meeting  by  a 
three-fourth's    vote    of    the    members  present,   provided  one  month's 
previous  notice  of  the  proposed  amendment  shall  have  been  given  to  each 
member. 

XI.  Any  by-law  may  be  enacted,  or  temporarily  suspended  at  any 
meeting  by  a  three-fourth's  vote  of  the  members  present  provided  that 
no  by-law  shall  be  enacted  inconsistent  with  this  Constitution. 

In  the  present  stage  of  the  hbrary  development  of  Indiana  it  has  been 
necessary  for  the  Association  to  give  its  attention  largely  to  the  prac- 
tical problems  of  administration,  though  architecture,  bibliography,  and 
the  relation  of  the  library  to  other  institutions,  such  as  the  school,  the 
club,  etc.,  have  all  received  a  fair  amount  of  consideration.  The  Associ- 
ation has  also  given  time  to  the  discussion  of  library  laws  and  has  been 
instrumental  in  bringing  about  important  and  desirable  legislation  dur- 
ing the  period  of  its  existence.  Nor  has  the  special  feature  been  entirely 
neglected  and  a  feeling  of  true  fellowship  is  gradually  springing  up. 

Such,  in  brief,  is  the  record  of  this  small  but  earnest  body  of  work- 
ers. If  the  history  of  these  years  is  a  prophecy  of  the  future,  the  Indi- 
ana Library  Association  is  destined  to  exercise  a  salutary  and  potent 
influence  upon  the  life  and  educational  thought  of  our  great  state. 

Arthur  Cunningham, 

President,  1904. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  63 

INDIANAPOLIS. 
Indiana  State  Library. 

Probably  no  more  valuable  history  of  the  State  Library  can  be  writ- 
ten in  brief  than  that  compiled  from  quotations  from  the  laws,  from  the 
beginning  to  date  in  chronological  order.  In  these  we  see  the  first  con- 
ception and  how  the  conception  broadened. 

The  first  official  mention  to  be  found  of  a  State  Library  is  in  the 
Journal  of  the  Constitutional  Convention  of  1816,  p.  68,  June  28: 

1.  * 'Resolved,  That  it  be  recommended  to  the  General  Assembly  of 
the  State  of  Indiana,  to  appropriate  the  money  voluntarily  given  by  the 
citizens  of  Harrison  County  to  the  state,  to  the  purchase  of  books  for  a 
library  for  the  use  of  the  Legislature  and  other  officers  of  government; 
and  that  the  said  General  Assembly  will,  from  time  to  time,  make  such 
other  appropriations  for  the  increase  of  said  Library,  as  they  may  deem 
necessary.** 

The  first  legislative  action  was  taken  on  February  11,  1825  (Acts 
1825,  p.  47) : 

Section  1.  **Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  books  now  in  the  office  of  the  Secretary  of  State, 
together  with  such  as  may  be  added  to  the  collection  in  pursuance  of 
this  act,  or  any  other  law,  or  by  donation,  exchange  or  otherwise,  shall 
constitute  a  State  Library,  for  the  use  of  the  members  of  the  Legisla- 
ture, the  secretaries  and  clerks  of  each  House  thereof,  the  officers  of 
the  several  branches  of  the  Executive  Department  of  the  State  govern- 
ment, the  Judge  of  the  United  States  District  Court,  the  United  States 
District  Attorney,  the  Judges  of  the  Supreme  Court  of  this  State,  and 
the  Judges  of  the  Circuit  Courts  when  they  or  any  of  them  may  be  at 
the  seat  of  government. ' ' 

Sec.  2.  **That  the  Governor,  Secretary  of  State,  Auditor  of  Pubhc 
Accounts  and  Treasurer  of  State  shall  constitute  a  Board  of  Commis- 
sioners." 

Sec.  5.  "The  Secretary  of  State  shall  discharge  the  duties  of  Lib- 
rarian, by  keeping  a  catalogue  of  the  books  belonging  to  the  Library,  in 
a  book  for  that  purpose,  delivering  them  to  and  receiving  them  from  the 
persons  entitled  to  use  them,   by  keeping  a  book  in  which  he  shall  note 


64  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

down  the  date  of  delivery,  and  return  of  books,  by  keeping  an  account 
current  with  th©  Board  of  Commissioners  aforesaid,  and  the  State. 

Sec.  6.  *  'The  sum  of  fifty  dollars  be,  and  the  same  is  hereby  appropri- 
ated to  be  expended  in  the  binding  of  pamphlets,  in  the  Secretary's  office, 
and  in  the  purchase  of  books,  as  additions  to  the  Library  aforesaid;  and 
the  sum  of  thirty  dollars  on  the  first  day  of  January  next,  and  annually 
thereafter  for  the  uses,  and  purposes  last  aforesaid.'* 

The  above  law  was  amended  on  February  10, 1831  (R.  S.  1831,  p.  365) : 

Sec.  7.  * 'There  is  hereby  appropriated  for  the  increase  of  the  State 
Library,  the  sum  of  one  hundred  dollars  annually." 

Sec.  8.  *  'That  the  Secretary  of  State  be,  and  he  is  hereby  authorized 
to  purchase  two  of  Tanner's  maps  of  the  United  States,  of  the  last  edition, 
which  shall  by  him  during  the  recess  of  the  general  assembly,  be  care- 
fully preserved  in  the  state  library,  and  during  the  sessions  of  the  Legis- 
lature, shall  be  respectively  placed  in  some  convenient  place,  in  the  sen- 
ate chamber  and  hall  of  representatives,  for  the  use  of  the  members  of 
the  two  houses." 

It  is  interesting  to  note  how  the  Legislature  directed  specific  pur- 
chases as  above  in  Section  8,  and  in  the  following  resolutions,  February 
2,  1833  (Acts  1833,  p.  232) : 

"Resolved,  by  the  general  assembly  of  the  state  of  Indiana,  That  the 
secretary  of  state  is  hereby  authorized  to  purchase  a  full  set  of  Niles' 
Register  for  the  State  Library." 

And  on  the  same  date  (Acts  1833,  p.  240) : 

"Resolved,  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of  Indiana,  That 
the  secretary  of  state  be  instructed  not  to  make  any  expenditures  of  the 
Library  Fund,  in  the  purchase  of  novels  or  romances." 

The  cataloguing  of  the  Library  is  further  provided  for  (Acts  1837,  p. 
103),  February  6,  1837: 

Sec.  4.  "It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Secretary  of  State,  under  the 
direction  of  the  Committee  on  the  state  library,  to  purchase  the  annual 
additions  to  said  Library,  and  to  have  prepared  a  suitable  catalogue  of 
all  the  books  in  said  library  of  a  miscellaneous  nature,  together  from 
time  to  time  of  such  additions  as  may  be  made  to  the  same;  and  for  his 
services  as  librarian  he  shall  receive  the  sum  of  $125.00  annually." 

Sec.  5.  "One  of  the  said  library  rooms  is  hereby  set  apart  for  the 
law  library  belonging  to  the  members  of  the  bar  and  Judges   of  the   su- 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  65 

preme  court,  where  the  same  may  be  kept  under  the  entire  direction  and 
control  of  said  court. ' ' 

Appropriation  for  purchase  increased  February  6,  1837  (Acts  1837,  p. 
106) : 

Section  1.  **Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  there  is  hereby  appropriated  for  the  increase  of  the  state 
library,  the  sum  of  two  hundred  dollars  annually. ' ' 

In  1841  the  State  Library  became  a  separate  institution,  separated 
from  the  office  of  Secretary  of  State,  and  a  State  Librarian  was  selected. 
(Acts  1841,  p.  114). 

The  bill  by  which  the  Library  became  a  separate  institution  seems 
to  have  been  introduced  by  Philip  Mason,  of  Fayette  County  (see  his 
Autobiography,  p.  164) .  The  main  features  of  the  bill,  so  far  as  it  added 
to  or  changed  former  legislation  upon  the  subject,  are  as  follows: 

Section  1.  **Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  there  shall  be  elected  during  the  present  session  of  the 
legislature,  by  joint  ballot  of  both  houses,  and  every  three  years  there- 
after, a  librarian,  who  shall  hold  his  office  for  the  term  of  three  years, 
and  said  librarian  shall  be  keeper  of  the  state  library,  state  house,  and 
State  House  Square." 

In  1842,  January  29,  the  use  of  the  Library  was  extended  beyond 
previous  provisions  (Acts  1842,  p.  119) : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  privileges  of  the  State  Library  shall  hereafter  be  ex- 
tended to  the  following  additional  persons  while  at  the  seat  of  govern- 
ment: Attorneys  of  the  Supreme  Court,  editors  of  newspapers,  clergy- 
men, physicians,  and  all  other  peisons  who  have  heretofore  been  entitled 
by  law  to  the  use  of  books  from  said  library. ' ' 

In  1847,  January  27,  the  use  of  the  Library  was  further  extended  as 
follows  (Acts  1847.  p.  109) : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  privileges  of  the  State  Library  shall  be  extended  to  the 
trustees  and  officers  of  the  State  lunatic  asylum,  and  the  institutions  for 
the  deaf  and  dumb  and  the  blind." 

The  disposal  of  duplicates  was  provided  for  in  1848,  February  12 
(Acts  1848,  p.  15) : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  State  Librarian,  by  and  with  the  expressed  consent  of 


66  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

the  governor,  auditor,  treasurer  and  secretary  of  state,  shall  be,  and  he 
is  hereby  authorized,  to  sell,  exchange,  or  dispose  of  in  any  other  way,  for 
the  benefit  of  the  State  Library,  any  duplicate,  imperfect,  damaged,  or 
other  work  or  works  not  wanted  for  the  use  of  said  Library. ' ' 

The  next  act  is  scarcely  a  part  of  Hbrary  legislation,  but  it  was  so 
important  a  duty  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  Librarian  that  it  seems  worth 
mentioning  even  in  this  connection,  as  its  apparent  neglect  has  robbed  our 
State  of  so  valuable  an  historic  document  (Acts  1848,  February  15,  p. 
72): 

Section  1.  **Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  State  Librarian  be,  and  he  is  hereby  required  to  pro- 
cure a  suitable  book  in  which  he  shall  cause  to  be  recorded  the  names  of 
the  commissioned  and  non-commissioned  officers  and  privates  of  the  State 
of  Indiana,  who  volunteered  their  services  to  the  General  Government  in 
the  present  war  with  the  Republic  of  Mexico. ' ' 

Sec.  2.  "That  in  making  such  record  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the 
Librarian  to  designate  in  appropriate  columns  the  name,  rank,  age,  occu- 
pation and  residence  of  each  of  the  said  volunteers,  also  the  term  of  ser- 
vice, date  of  discharge,  and  the  causes  thereof,  whether  from  sickness, 
wounds  in  battle,  expiration  of  term  of  service,  or  otherwise." 

Sec.  3.  ** He  shall  also  designate  in  an  appropriate  column,  the  death 
of  any  volunteer,  and  the  cause  thereof,  whether  from  sickness,  killed  in 
battle,  or  otherwise. " 

Sec.  4.  **That  in  making  such  record  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the 
Librarian  to  commence  with  the  first  regiment,  recording  the  names  of 
the  colonel,  lieutenant-colonel  and  major  thereof;  then  to  proceed  with 
the  several  companies  composing  said  regiment,  commencing  with  com- 
pany A,  until  the  record  of  the  regiment  is  complete,  observing  the 
same  order  with  the  other  regiments." 

Sec.  5.  *  'The  said  record  shall  be  deposited  in  the  State  Library,  and 
open  to  the  inspection  of  all." 

Sec.  6.  ''This  act  to  take  effect  and  be  in  force  from  and  after  its 
passage. ' ' 

The  Librarian  was  authorized  on  January  21,  1850,  to  present  copies 
of  all  surplus  pubHc  documents  to  the  agent  of  the  American  Coloniza- 
tion Society  for  the  purpose  of  being  sent  to  Liberia  (Acts  1850,  p.   118) : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  State  Librarian  be,    and  he  is  hereby   authorized  to 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  67 

hand  over  to  the  agent  of  the  American  Colonization  Society,  a  single 
copy  of  any  surplus  public  documents  now  in  the  library,  not  required  by 
the  present  and  future  wants  of  the  State,  for  the  purpose  of  being  sent 
to  Liberia.'* 

The  use  of  the  Library  was  further  extended  in  1850,  January  3 
(Acts  1850,  p.  119) : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  use  of  the  State  Library  be  extended  to  the  professors 
and  teachers  in  all  the  institutions  of  learning  in  the  State,  while  any  of 
them  shall  be  at  the  seat  of  government. ' ' 

On  page  250  of  the  Acts  last  quoted  a  further  extension  of  the  use  of 
the  Library  is  provided  (Acts  1850,  p.  250. ) 

Section  1.  **Be  it  resolved  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  privileges  of  the  State  Library  be,  and  they  are  hereby 
extended  to  the  Architect  of  the  Insane  Hospital  and  Asylum  for  the 
Deaf  and  Dumb." 

In  1867  the  Law  Library  was  separated  from  the  general  Library, 
and  was  placed  under  the  control  of  the  judges  of  the  Supreme  Court, 
and  has  since  remained  so  (Acts  1867,  p.  209) : 

*  *  *  'The  Law  Library  shall  be  under  the  control  of  the  Judges  of  the 
Supreme  Court,  and  they  are  hereby  authorized  to  sell,  exchange,  and 
purchase  books  therefor,  to  be  paid  for  on  their  order,  out  of  the  general 
funds  of  the  Treasury,  and  they  may  make  rules  for  the  care  and  control 
of  the  same." 

After  the  legislation  of  1850  cited  above,  there  was  no  legislation  in 
any  way  vitally  influencing  the  management  or  welfare  of  the  Library 
until  1889  (Acts  1889,  p.  58),  when  the  law  was  in  some  respects  very 
greatly  modified.  By  this  act  the  Library  took  on  new  life  and  was 
actually  to  become  a  library  in  a  sense  which  had  never  before  been 
possible.  A  new  purchasing  board  was  created,  and  a  financial  support 
was  given  by  the  legislature  that  had  never  before  been  obtained.  The 
following  sections  indicate  the  changes : 

Section  1.  "Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  State  Geologist,  the  Chief  of  the  Bureau  of  Statistics, 
and  the  State  Librarian,  the  State  Superintendent  of  Public  Instruction, 
and  one  member  to  be  appointed  by  the  Indiana  Historical  Society  shall 
be,  and  are  hereby  constituted  the  Purchasing  Board  of  the  State  Library. ' ' 


68  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

Sec.  3.  * 'There  is  hereby  appropriated,  to  be  paid  out  of  the  general 
fund  of  the  State  Treasury,  the  sum  of  five  thousand  dollars,  to  be  ex- 
pended during  the  year  beginning  April  1,  1889,  and  ending  April  1,  1890, 
for  the  purchase  and  binding  of  books  for  the  State  Library,  and  the 
sum  of  two  thousand  dollars  annually  thereafter  for  the  same  purpose : 
Provided,  That  the  Purchasing  Board,  in  their  discretion,  may  expend 
not  to  exceed  one  thousand  dollars  of  the  first  named  appropriation  for 
the  preparation  of  a  card  catalogue  of  said  Library:  And,  provided,  That 
all  other  existing  laws  making  appropriations  for  the  purchase  and  bind- 
ing of  books  for  the  State  Library  are  hereby  repealed  ^ro  tanto." 

Sec.  6.  "The  custody  of  the  archaeological  and  historical  relics  now 
in  charge  of  the  State  Geologist  and  heretofore  in  charge  of  the  State 
Librarian  is  hereby  transferred  to  the  State  Geologist,  who  shall  pre- 
serve the  same  in  accordance  with  the  provisions  of  the  laws  for  their 
preservation  by  the  State  Librarian. ' ' 

Thus  we  have  added  a  larger  fund,  provision  for  a  card  catalogue 
and  a  second  assistant,  resulting  in  excellent  additions  to  the  Library 
and  rendering  its  material  more  available  as  well  as  larger  opportunities 
for  more  efficient  work.  The  appropriation  for  books  and  binding  re- 
mained at  two  thousand  dollars  per  year  until  1893  when,  by  the  appro- 
priation bill,  it  was  cut  to  one  thousand  dollars,  and  the  amount  remained 
unchanged  until  November,  1903. 

In  1895  the  law  was  so  amended  as  to  remove  the  selection  of  li- 
brarian from  the  legislature  and  partisan  politics,  placing  this  power  in 
the  hands  of  a  non  partisan  ex-officio  board,  April  11,  1895  (Acts  1895,  p. 
234)  and  provides  as  follows : 

Section  1.  **Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of 
Indiana,  That  the  management  and  control  of  the  State  Library  shall  be 
vested  in  the  State  Board  of  Education,  which  shall  constitute,  for 
Library  purposes,  the  State  Library  Board." 

Sec.  3.  **The  term  of  office  of  the  State  Librarian  shall  be  two  years, 
and  he  shall  appoint  his  assistants  by  and  with  the  advice  and  consent  of 
the  State  Library  Board."  ^ 

The  only  legislation  on  the  State  Library  in  the  session  of  1897  was 
concerning  the  distribution  of  documents  (Acts  1897,  p.  Ill) : 

Sec.  2.  ''The  House,  Senate  and  Documentary  Journals  shall  be  dis- 
tributed by  the  State  Librarian  as  follows,  to  wit:  To  the  State  officers 
and  their  deputies  and  to  the  members  of  the  Supreme   and  Appellate 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  69 

Courts,  each  one  copy  of  each  Journal;  to  the  members  of  the  Senate 
and  House  of  Representatives,  and  to  the  Secretary  and  Assistant  Sec- 
retary and  the  Doorkeeper  of  the  Senate,  and  to  the  Principal  and  Assist- 
ant Clerks  and  Doorkeeper  of  the  House  of  Representatives,  each  one 
copy  of  each  Journal;  to  each  County  within  the  State,  two  copies  of 
each  Journal  to  be  deposited  in  the  office  of  the  Clerk  of  each  county, 
open  to  the  inspection  of  any  person;  to  each  university,  college,  city, 
township,  or  other  public  library,  each  one  copy  of  each  Journal;  to  each 
benevolent,  penal  and  reformatory  institution  of  the  State,  one  copy  of 
each  Journal." 

The  legislature  of  1903  did  good  service  for  the  library  interests  of 
the  State  in  many  ways,  but  they  did  nothing  better  than  their  work  for 
the  State  Library;  first,  by  increasing  the  funds  for  the  Library  to  three 
times  the  former  amount  and  second,  by  making  it  possible  to  lend  books, 
thus  rendering  the  State  Library  useful  to  all  citizens  of  the  State  with 
out  the  necessity  of  coming  to  the  Capitol,  as  the  following  quotation 
from  (Acts  1903,  p.  153,)  indicate: 

Sec.  9.  "Such  books  belonging  to  the  State  Library,  other  than  ref- 
erence books  as  could  be  readily  replaced  is  case  of  loss,  may  be  loaned 
to  any  citizen  of  the  State  who  shall  place  such  guarantee  with  the  State 
Librarian,  for  the  safe  return  of  the  same,  as  the  State  Library  Board 
may  demand,  and  who  shall  pay  the  cost  of  transportation  of  the  book 
or  books  to  and  from  the  borrower:  Provided,  That  no  book  that  could 
not  be  readily  replaced  in  case  of  loss  shall  be  removed  from  the  State 
Library  except  by  State  officials,  and  by  them  only  in  pursuit  of  their 
official  duty." 

The  sources  of  information  as  to  the  systems  of  classification  and 
cataloguing  used  in  the  State  Library  during  the  earlier  years  of  its 
existence  are  few,  depending  almost  entirely  upon  the  brief  reports 
which  were  made  to  the  legislature. 

The  first  mention  of  either  having  been  attempted  is  made  by  John 
B.  Dillon  in  his  report  dated  December  3, 1845,  where  he  says  that  "since 
the  adjournment  of  the  last  session  of  the  legislature  a  convenient  classi- 
fication of  the  books  has  been  made  and  a  new  catalogue  completed. ' ' 
Anything  previous  to  this  time  was  probably  a  mere  list. 

In  accordance  with  the  recommendation  of  Nathaniel  Bolton,  in  1853, 
the  legislature  passed  a  bill  for  a  printed  catalogue  but  this  was  not  made 
at  once,  the  reason  being  given  by  Gordon  Tanner  in  his  report,  January 


70  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

15,  1855,  as  follows :  '  'The  salary  was  increased  to  five  hundred  dollars 
at  a  time  when  money  was  plenty  and  the  necessaries  of  life  cheap;  and 
when  the  Library  was  only  to  be  kept  open  on  Saturdays.  Afterwards 
the  duties  of  the  office  were  quadrupled,  without  any  increase  of  compen- 
sation; and  later  the  times  have  changed,  the  necessaries  of  life  have 
doubled  in  price,  and  the  consequence  is  that  the  Librarian,  if  he  has  a 
family,  must  absolutely  starve,  or  neglect  the  duties  of  his  office  to  gain 
a  living  at  some  other  pursuit.  This,  the  present  incumbent  has,  to  some 
extent,  been  compelled  to  do.  He  has  failed  to  make  out  a  catalogue  of 
books,  as  contemplated  by  law.  He  offers  no  apology  for  it,  as  he  had 
to  make  choice  between  two  great  evils — neglect  of  duty,  or  starvation. ' ' 

Printed  catalogues  were  issued  in  1865,  by  B.  F.  Foster;  in  1869,  by 
M.  G.  McLain,  and  in  1872,  by  James  De  Sanno.  These  show  but  little 
attempt  at  classification. 

Mrs.  Sarah  A.  Oren,  librarian  from  April,  1873,  to  April,  1875,  states 
that  she  has  classified  the  books  '  'after  the  manner  of  the  Boston  Public 
Library,  so  far  as  the  immovable  shelves  will  allow. ' '  She  further  says 
'  'The  only  complete  system  of  cataloguing  an  ever-increasing  library  is 
the  'card  catalogue.  *  This  being  understood  as  yet  by  comparatively  few 
persons,  I  have  hesitated  to  introduce,  lest  the  frequent  changes  of 
Librarian  shall  prove  disastrous  to  it. ' ' 

In  1881,  there  being  no  catalogue  except  an  author  list,  Mrs.  Emma 
Ames  Winsor  began  a  card  catalogue  and  in  1883  reports  its  completion 
to'L.' 

The  first  special  effort  to  make  an  Indiana  department  of  local  his- 
tories, books  by  Indiana  authors  or  books  in  any  way  relating  to  the 
State,  was  made  by  Mrs.  Lizzie  O.  Callis-Scott,  1883-1888.  She  also 
attempted  to  complete  the  collection  of  United  States  documents. 

As  soon  as  Mr.  J.  P.  Dunn  took  charge  in  1889  he  proceeded  to  re- 
classify the  library  and  remove  all  duphcate  volumes  from  the  shelves. 
The  work  of  rebinding  and  binding  paper  covered  volumes  was  taken  up 
and  all  the  books  were  accessioned.  A  card  catalogue  was  made.  Con- 
siderable attention  was  given  to  the  collection  of  maps  of  America,  to 
the  purchase  of  historical  books  and  the  completion  of  broken  sets. 

The  cataloguing  was  continued  by  Miss  Mary  E.  Ahem  as  was  also 
the  collection  of  historical  material,  exchange  of  documents  with  other 
states,  collection  of  Indiana  newspapers,  etc. ,  etc. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  71 

In  1898  a  printed  catalogue  was  issued,  Mr.  W.  E.  Henry  having 
taken  charge  in  1897.  Since  that  time  the  library  has  been  almost  wholly 
reclassified  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification.  A  printed 
catalogue  of  the  United  States  documents  was  issued  in  1900.  A  card 
catalogue  indexing  the  United  States  documents,  the  publications  of  the 
various  states  with  which  the  library  exchanges,  and  the  miscellaneous 
books,  is  an  important  addition.  Preparation  is  now  being  made  to  issue 
a  printed  catalogue  of  the  miscellaneous  books,  this  being  made  neces- 
sary by  the  growing  demand  for  books  by  residents  of  the  state  not 
living  contiguous  to  Indianapolis.  The  effort  to  make  this  a  reference 
library  for  the  whole  state  has  been  persistently  pushed  until  under 
the  present  liberal  law  it  is  fast  becoming  such. 

Bibliographical  bulletins  have  been  issued  from  time  to  time  and 
some  important  indexing  has  been  done,  as  the  index  to  the  Documentary 
Journals  of  Indiana  and  the  newspaper  index.  The  latter  dates  from 
January  1,  1898,  and  includes  the  Indianapolis  Journal,  Indianapolis 
News,  Indianapolis  Sentinel,  and  Press.  It  covers  all  matters  of  local 
historical  interest  and  the  more  important  general  topics.  So  far  as 
known  this  work  is  only  being  done  by  two  other  libraries,  the  Massa- 
chusetts State  Library  and,  recently,  the  California  State  Library. 

In  1898  circulars  were  issued  announcing  a  clearing  house  scheme 
whereby  the  State  Library  will  receive,  from  the  various  libraries  of  the 
state,  magazines,  pamphlets,  reports,  public  documents  and  books, 
which  they  might  collect  from  their  respective  towns  and  neighbor- 
hoods. In  exchange  for  these,  the  local  library  having  registered 
what  it  needs  toward  the  completion  of  broken  sets,  the  material  is 
sent,  in  so  far  as  possible.  Many  libraries  have  availed  themselves  of 
this  privilege  and  it  has  proved  mutually  advantageous. 

The  lines  of  purchase  have  been  mainly  historical  and  sociological. 
Every  effort  has  been  made  to  secure  historical  material  bearing  upon 
Indiana  and  the  old  Northwest.  Along  this  line  the  library  is  especi- 
ally to  be  congratulated  upon  having  secured  The  Western  Sun,  pub- 
lished at  Vincennes,  Indiana,  from  its  first  issue,  July  11,  1807,  to 
December  23,  1843.  The  Indiana  department,  composed  of  books  about 
Indiana  and  by  Indiana  authors,  is  very  interesting  and,  though  by  no 


72 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES 


means   complete,    it    already    numbers    more    than    2,300  volumes,  not 
including  pamphlets.    The  library  also  contains  much  valuable  geneal- 
ogical material,  which  is  constantly  being  increased.       " 
Since  1841  the  following  librarians  have  been  in  charge: 


John  Cook,    -    -    -  - 

Samuel  P.  Daniels,  - 

John  B  Dillon,   -    -  - 

Nathaniel  Bolton,  -  - 

Gordon  Tanner,       -  - 

S.  D.  Lyons,  -    -    -  - 

James  R.  Bryant,  -  - 

Robert  D.  Brown,  -  - 
David  Stephenson, 

B.  F.  Foster,     -    -  - 

M.  G.  McLain,  -    -  - 

James  De  Sanno,   -  - 

Sarah  A.  Oren,      -  - 

Lycurgus  Dalton,  -  - 

Richard  Conner,     -  - 

Maggie  F.  Peelle,  -  - 

Emma  A.  Winsor,  -  - 
Lizzie  0.  Callis-Scott, 

Jacob  Piatt  Dunn,  -  - 

Mary  Eileen  Ahem,  - 

Emma  L.  Davidson,  - 
William  E.  Henry, 


February,  1841,  to  February,  1844 
February,  1844,  to    January,  1845 

January,  1845,  to 

January,  1851,  to 

January,  1854,  to 

January,  1856,  to 

January,  1859,  to 


January,  1861,  to 
January,  1863,  to 
January,  1865, 

■  April,  1869, 
.       April,  1871, 

■  April,  1873^ 
April,  1875, 

'       April,  1877, 
April,  1879, 

■  April,  1881, 
April,  1883,  to 
April,  1889,  to 
April,  1893,  to 
April,  1895,  to 

•      April,  1897,  to 


January,  1851 
January,  1854 
January,  1856 
January,  1859 
January,  1861 
January,  1863 
January,  1865 
April,  1869; 
April,  1871 
April,  1873 
April,  1875 
April,  1877 
April,  1879 
April,  1881 
April,  1883 
April,  1889 
April,  1893 
April,  1895 
April,  1897 
date. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  73 

INDIANAPOLIS. 
Public  Library  Commission. 
The  efforts  made  by  advocates  of  public  libraries  in  Indiana  begin- 
ning in  1887,  to  revive  the  township  libraries,  or  at  least  to  make  it  pos- 
sible to  have  a  public  township  library  supported  by  taxation,  were 
without  avail  for  more  than  ten  years,  though  the  library  sentiment  was 
steadily  growing.  Then  a  new  factor  was  introduced  in  the  movement. 
The  women's  literary  clubs  had  become  numerous  and  had  formed  a 
central  organization.  They  felt  the  need  of  public  libraries  in  their  own 
work,  and  also  realized  their  public  utility.  The  Indiana  Union  of 
Literary  Clubs  joined  heartily  in  the  agitation,  and  through  its  efforts 
in  1899,  a  public  library  law  was  finally  adopted.  (Acts  of  1899,  p.  134.) 
This  law  covered  the  following  essential  points: 

1.  It  created  a  Public  Library  Commission  of  three  members,  with 
supervision  of  the  library  work  of  the  state. 

2.  It  appropriated  $3,000  for  the  inauguration  of  a  system  of  travel- 
ing libraries  under  the  direction  of  the  Public  Library  Commission. 

3.  It  provided  that  the  people  of  any  township,  by  vote  might 
estabhsh  a  tax  of  two  cents  on  each  $100  of  property  for  maintenance  of 
a  free  public  township  library. 

4.  It  put  the  control  of  any  such  library  in  a  board  of  three  per- 
sons— the  school  township  trustee  and  two  members  appointed  by  the 
judge  of  the  circuit  court,  one  of  whom  should  be  a  woman. 

Under  the  provisions  of  this  law  the  Governor  appointed  as  members 
of  the  Commission  Jacob  P.  Dunn,  of  Indianapolis;  EHzabeth  C.  Earl,  of 
Connersville,  and  Joseph  R.  Voris,  of  Bedford.  The  Commission  met 
and  organized  April  11,  1899,  by  electing  Mr.  Dunn  President,  the 
State  Librarian  being  Secretary,  as  provided  by  the  law.  The  Commis- 
sion proceeded  at  once  to  the  purchase  of  books  and  the  equipment  of 
libraries.  After  careful  discussion  it  was  deemed  advisable  to  organize 
two  classes  of  libraries.  The  general  libraries  are  miscellaneous  collect- 
ions of  forty  volumes  each,  all  of  this  class  of  libraries  being  similar  in 
scope,  yet  without  duplication  of  volumes.  The  Study  Libraries  con- 
sist of  from  ten  to  fifteen  volumes  each  upon  sorfie  specific  subject. 

By  August  26,  1899,  thirty-four  libraries  were  ready  for  circulation, 
and  twenty-six  more  were  added  by  January  17,  1900.  By  October  31, 
1900,  twenty  more  were  ready  for  circulation.    From  the  time  of  organi- 


74  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

zation  of  the  board,  April  14,  1899,  to  October  31,  1900,  there  were  107 
libraries  loaned  to  69  associations  in  39  counties  of  the  state,  and  the 
returns  showed  7,062  volumes  read.  The  popularity  of  the  work  was 
manifest,  and  the  legislature  of  1901  increased  the  appropriation  for  the 
Commission's  clerical  expenses  from  $500  to  $1,000,  and  added  $2,000  for 
"organization,  books  and  equipment." 

And  this  was  timely.  The  Commission  was  required  by  law  to  fur- 
nish * 'advice  and  information"  to  local  libraries  on  call,  and  the  Carnegie 
library  donations  had  aroused  a  widespread  interest  in  public  libraries. 
In  response  to  tenders  of  service,  the  commission  soon  received  many 
requests  for  advice  as  to  plans  of  buildings,  modes  of  organization,  etc. , 
and  this  was  of  vital  importance,  for  in  library  work,  as  in  most  other 
enterprises,  half  the  battle  is  in  getting  started  right. 

Errors  made  at  the  outset  are  usually  difficult  to  correct,  and  always 
do  serious  harm  before  they  are  corrected.  It  was  evident  that  some- 
body must  give  special  attention  to  this  work,  and  the  Commission 
obtained  the  services  of  Miss  Merica  Hoagland  as  hbrary  organizer. 
She  generously  gave  her  services  without  compensation  from  May  1 
to  November  1,  1901,  when  the  increased  appropriation  made  by 
the  Legislature  of  1901  became  available.  But  it  soon  became  apparent 
that  it  would  be  impossible  for  the  organizer  to  answer  all  the  calls  by 
going  to  the  various  points  and  giving  the  time  needed  at  each,  and  that 
some  mode  of  making  the  * 'advice  and  information,"  imposed  on  the 
commission  by  law,  more  collective  and  systematic  would  have  to  be 
found. 

This  was  the  more  urgent  because  the  chief  need  was  for  trained 
librarians.  The  lack  of  funds  prevented  the  employment  of  experienced 
librarians  in  almost  all  cases,  and  the  experience  with  the  township 
libraries  had  demonstrated  the  need  of  some  training.  The  management 
of  a  library  is  a  profession,  and  yet  a  little  instruction— not  such  as  could 
well  be  given  in  a  visit  by  this  organizer,  but  such  as  may  be  obtained  in 
a  few  weeks— would  enable  a  reasonably  intelligent  person,  with  the  aid 
of  the  published  text-books  that  are  accessible,  to  manage  a  small  library 
very  satisfactorily. 

The  first  effort  in  this  line  was  the  instruction  of  a  * 'library  class," 
at  the  rooms  of  the  commission  from  October  31  to  November  7,  1901. 
This  was  attended  by  thirteen  persons,  and  the  result  was  so  satisfactory 
that  a  "library  school"  was  organized  and  conducted  from  April  17  to 


INDfAgiTAXlBRARIES  75 


CALlFQSi^^ 


May  15,  1902.  In  this  library  school  Miss  Harriet  L.  Eaton,  a  graduate 
of  the  Pratt  School,  served  as  instructor.  This  was  attended  by  twenty- 
eight  persons,  all  connected  with  pubHc  library  work  in  the  State  and 
from  libraries  desiring  the  * 'advice  and  information,'  that  could  thus  be 
obtained.  The  Commission  does  not  undertake  instruction  of  anybody 
not  in  public  library  work. 

In  the  summer  of  1903  the  directors  of  the  Winona  Assembly  having 
tendered  the  use  of  quarters,  and  co-operation  in  the  work,  a  library 
school  was  held  at  Winona  Lake  from  July  6  to  August  14.  Twenty-six 
students  were  enrolled,  of  whom  twenty-two  took  the  full  course  and 
received  certificates  after  examination  on  the  work  done,  and  four  took 
partial  courses  in  special  subjects.  In  this  school  Miss  Anna  R.  Phelps, 
a  graduate  of  Vassar  College  and  the  New  York  State  Library  School, 
served  as  instructor,  and  since  then  has  been  retained  as  permanent 
instructor  of  the  Commission.  In  January,  1904,  a  two  weeks'  class  was 
held  in  the  capitol  at  Indianapolis.  There  were  fourteen  students  in 
attendance,  who  are  given  credit  for  work  done  if  they  desire  to  make  a 
full  course  hereafter. 

Another  effort  at  concentration  in  instruction  has  been  in  what,  for 
want  of  a  better  name,  have  been  called  library  institutes.  At  places 
that  seemed  to  be  centers  of  library  interest — to  which  others  could  be 
gathered  besides  the  immediate  residents — the  organizer  has  arranged 
meetings  of  two  or  three  day's  duration,  at  which  papers  and  addresses 
on  library  topics  were  presented  and  local  library  conditions  were  dis- 
cussed. These  have  attracted  the  attendance  of  others  besides  those 
directly  engaged  in  library  work,  and  in  every  case  have  given  a  stimulus 
to  interest  in  libraries.  The  institutes  held  at  Indianapolis,  New 
Albany,  Peru  and  South  Bend  were  particularly  satisfactory  in  this 
respect. 

Of  course,  the  school  and  institute  work  does  not  fully  meet  the 
demand  for  "advice  and  information."  Up  to  January,  1903  the  organ- 
izer reported  seventy-six  personal  visits  to  fifty  places  in  forty-one 
counties,  to  aid  in  local  library  work.  Of  these,  thirty-six  were  for 
requested  conferences  with  Hbrary  boards.  In  addition  to  this  there 
have  been  many  visits  of  library  representatives  to  the  rooms  of  the 
commission  for  information  and  advice,  and  there  is  a  large  and  continu- 
ally growing  correspondence  by  mail  of  similar  character.  At  the  same 
time  general  library  interest  has  been  stimulated  by  encouraging  discus- 


76  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

sion  of  the  matter  in  newspapers,  and  by  occasional  addresses  before 
farmers'  institutes,  the  State  grange  and  other  bodies. 

By  1903  the  importance  of  the  work  of  the  Com.mission  was  gen- 
erally appreciated,  and  the  legislature  of  that  year  increased  its  powers 
and  gave  it  an  annual  appropriation  of  $7,000  for  its  expenses.  At  the 
same  time  there  was  a  re-organization  of  the  board,  the  offices  of 
organizer  and  corresponding  secretary  being  consolidated  and  the  per- 
manent employes  became  an  instructor,  hbrarian,  stenographer  and  ship- 
ping clerk.  The  administration  of  the  traveling  libraries  was  transferred 
from  the  State  Librarian  to  the  Organizer  on  November  1, 1902.  Under  the 
new  law  the  Commission  also  assumed  the  custody  of  the  books  in  the 
traveling  libraries  on  May  1,  1903.  In  April,  1903,  President  W.  W.  Par- 
sons of  the  State  Normal  School  was  made  a  member  of  the  Board  by 
Governor  Durbin,  this  being  the  first  change  made  in  the  original  member 
ship. 

As  a  summary  of  the  work  accomplished,   the  following  statement 

may  serve— The  years  are  the  fiscal  years  ending  October  31.  and  under 

the  year  1900  are  included  September  and  October  of  1899: 

1900    1901    1902    1903    1904 
3  mos. 

Libraries  visited  by  organizer.  26        38        43 

Traveling  Libraries  sent  out.    107        87        72      228        66 

School  held-days. 28       36 

Classes  held-days. 7  14 

Number   of   librarians  receiving   instruc- 
tion in  class  or  school 13        27        27        14 

Individual  instruction 3         4         5 

Number  of  library  institutes  held 1         5 

Farmers'  Institutes  visited. 2         6        12 

Jacob  P.  Dunn, 
President,  Public  Library  Commission 
February  24,  1904.  of  Indiana. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  77 

INDIANAPOLIS. 
Indianapolis  Public  Library. 

The  Indianapolis  Public  Library  is  the  outgrowth  of  a  Thanksgiving 
sermon  preached  November  26,  1868,  by  Rev.  H.  A.  Edson,  when  he  took 
for  his  text  **A  Plea  for  a  Public  Library. '*  The  result  of  this  sermon 
was  the  immediate  organization  of  the  Indianapolis  Library  Association, 
a  subscription  library,  which  was  the  nucleus  of  the  Public  Library. 
Upon  the  organization  of  the  latter,  the  Library  Association  donated  to 
it,  its  collection  of  2,000  volumes. 

In  1871  the  Legislature  of  Indiana  passed  a  law  authorizing  Boards 
of  School  Commissioners  in  cities  of  30,000  (or  more)  inhabitants  to  levy  a 
tax  not  to  exceed  one-fifth  of  a  mill  for  the  establishment  and  maintenance 
of  public  libraries.  Under  this  law  the  Indianapolis  School  Board  levied 
the  tax,  and  opened  the  PubHc  Library  in  the  High  School  building 
April  8,  1873.  The  Hbrary  is  supported  by  taxation,  but  the  levy  has 
been  raised  to  .04  cents  which  now  yields  an  annual  income  of  $52,000. 
The  present  building— the  library's  fourth  home— was  completed  in  1893. 
It  was  erected  for  the  purpose  of  a  library  building — the  Legislature  of 
1891  authorizing  the  Board  of  School  Commissioners  to  issue  bonds  to  the 
amount  of  $100,000.  The  building  is  considered  a  very  good  example  of 
Florentine  renaissance  architecture,  and  is  built  of  Indiana  stone. 

In  the  Main  Library,  the  delivery  room— except  on  Sundays  and 
holidays— is  open  from  9  A.  M.  to  9  p.  m.  and  the  reading  room  closes  one 
hour  later.  Branch  Libraries  1,  2,  3,  4,  5,  and  6  are  open  from  12:30  P. 
M.  to  8  p.  M.  on  week  days;  the  Bona  Thompson  Library,  Irvington, 
from  9  A.  M.  to  8  P.  M.  on  week  days.  All  Branches  on  Sundays  and 
three  holidays— Washington's  Birthday,  Decoration  Day,  and  Labor 
Day— are  open  from  3  P.  M.  to  8  p.  m.  On  New  Year's  Day,  4th  of  July, 
Thanksgiving  Day  and  Christmas,  the  Branches  are  all  closed. 

The  Library  now  contains  103,529  volumes,  adding  each  year  an 
average  of  5,500  new  books,  and  replacing  1,000  condemned  books.  There 
are  265  titles  in  the  list  of  periodicals  subscribed  for  annually.  The 
most  popular  ones  are  duplicated— twenty  of  these  duplicates  are  in  the 
Branch  Libraries. 

The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  method  recommended  by 
the  late  Dr.  W.  F.  Poole  and  the  scheme  of  notation  is  his,  also.  Free 
access  may  be  had  by  the  patrons  to  the  books  in  the  Children's   Room, 


78  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

the  Reference  Rooms  and  at  six  of  the  Branch  Libraries.  At  the  Main 
Library  and  at  the  Bona  Thompson  Library  any  person  desiring  to  use 
the  books  on  the  shelves  may  go  into  the  stack  rooms  through  the  librar- 
ian's office. 

The  circulation  of  books  for  home  use  was  267,295  in  the  year  ending 
June  30,  1903— an  average  of  876  per  day.  There  are  30,000  card  holders, 
which  is  a  good  percentage  of  the  population  of  Indianapohs,  which 
is  now  about  200,000.  Card  holders  must  be  residents  of  the  city— except 
in  case  of  a  person  who  pays  taxes  in  the  city  and  resides  outside:  he  is 
entitled  to  a  card.  Non-residents,  who  do  not  pay  city  taxes,  may  take 
out  a  card  upon  payment  of  $5.00  per  annum.  Two  books  may  be  drawn 
upon  one  card,  and  teachers  of  pubHc  and  private  schools  may  draw  six 
books  at  a  time  on  a  special  card,  provided  the  books  are  for  use  in  con- 
nection with  their  school  work. 

Special  work  with  the  children  is  a  feature  of  the  Indianapolis  Pub- 
lic Library.  In  the  Main  Library  the  best  lighted  and  most  attractive 
room  in  the  building  is  the  Children's  Room.  Here  carefully  trained 
attendants  assist  the  children  in  making  their  selection  of  books  or  guide 
them  in  their  reference  work.  These  attendants  also  have  charge  of 
the  selection  of  the  books  that  are  sent  out  in  lots  of  fifty  to  the  school 
buildings,  to  be  used  by  the  teachers  in  connection  with  their  geography 
and  history  work.  The  deposit  libraries — collections  of  100  books— that  are 
sent  to  the  Settlement  Houses,  are  largely  made  up  in  the  Children's 
Room.  In  the  Branch  Libraries  fifty  per  cent  of  the  patrons  are  child- 
ren, and  the  work  in  the  Children's  Room  is  supplemented  here  by  care- 
ful and  constant  work  by  the  attendants  in  charge  of  the  Branches. 

Special  attention  is  given  to  the  individual  and  to  clubs  in  the  Ref- 
erence Rooms.  Here  the  reference  books  and  card  catalogues  are  open 
to  the  public,  and  these  are  supplemented  by  printed,  classed  finding 
lists.  Assistance  in  selecting  books  or  in  hunting  up  subjects  is  con- 
stantly claimed  from  and  given  by  trained  attendants. 

In  addition  to  the  Main  Library  there  are  seven  branch  libraries 
located  in  the  suburbs  of  the  city:  these  are  each  equipped  with  a  per- 
manent collection  of  books  for  circulation  and  reference— an  average  of 
2,000  in  each  building;  twenty  of  the  most  popular  periodicals  are  in 
each  building.  These  Branch  Libraries  are  also  used  as  deHvery  stations, 
with  a  tri-weekly  delivery  to  each  of  six  buildings,  and  a  daily  delivery 
at  the  Bona  Thompson  Library,  Irvington.     Besides  the  delivery  stations 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  79 

located  in  the  Branches  there  are  five  others  in  drug  stores  at  points 
several  miles  distant  from  the  Main  Library,  where  by  leaving  cards 
and  call  slips,  patrons  may  have  books  sent  out  to  them,  three  times 
each  week. 

The  medical  department  of  the  Indianapolis  Public  Library  deserves 
special  mention.  This  was  established  in  1898,  through  the  efforts  of 
Dr.  George  W.  Sloan,  member  of  the  Board  of  School  Commissioners, 
and  Dr.  Frank  Wynn,  secretary  of  the  Marion  County  Medical  Society. 
The  physicians  of  the  city,  and  throughout  the  state,  responded  liberally 
to  the  request  for  donations  of  books,  and  3,957  valuable  books  were 
received.  Since  then  1,000  books  have  been  added  by  purchase  and  gift; 
and  by  exchange  of  duplicates,  many  full  sets  of  medical  periodicals, 
transactions  of  societies  and  journals  have  been  obtained.  The  Medical 
Library  is  free  to  all  physicians,  medical  students,  dentists  and  trained 
nurses,  as  a  reference  library.  Physicians  may  take  out  the  books  on 
their  library  cards. 

There  are  twenty-one  day  attendants  in  the  Main  Library,  each  of 
whom  works  forty-eight  hours  each  week  with  the  the  exception  of  the 
seven  legal  holidays.  Each  day  attendant  is  entitled  to  an  annual  vaca- 
tion of  two  weeks  until  she  has  served  three  years;  thereafter  she  is 
entitled  to  a  three  weeks  vacation. 

Seven  young  men  are  employed  as  night  attendants  at  the  Main 
Library.  These  go  on  duty  at  6  p.  m.  and  serve  twenty-three  hours  per 
week  each.  On  the  fifty-two  Sundays  and  seven  holidays  these  men 
have  charge  of  the  Reading  Rooms— the  day  being  divided  into  watches 
of  three  and  four  hours  each.  The  Library  is  closed  to  the  delivery  of 
books  on  these  days.  On  Saturdays  through  July  and  August,  from  1 
P.  M.  to  6  P.  M.  these  men  attendants  are  on  duty  in  the  Delivery  Room 
and  Children's  Room  in  place  of  the  day  attendants  who  are  given  a  half 
holiday.  The  men  attendants  are  paid  by  the  hour.  They  are  each 
allowed  vacations  of  two  weeks  without  pay.  The  eight  attendants  in 
the  seven  Branch  Libraries  work  fifty  hours  each  per  week  and  are 
allowed  two  weeks  vacation. 

The  first  librarian  in  charge  of  the  Indianapolis  Public  Library  was 
Charles  Evans.  He  was  succeeded  in  September,  1878,  by  Albert  B. 
Yohn.  Mr.  Yohn,  on  account  of  ill  health,  resigned  one  year  later  and 
his  successor,  Arthur  W.  Tyler,  held  the  position  until  December,  1882, 
when  W.  DeM.  Hooper  was  elected  librarian.     In   April,    1889,   Charles 


80 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES 


Evans  was  again  elected  librarian  and  held  the  position  three   years;  in 
April,  1892,  Eliza  G.  Browaing,  the  present  incumbent,  was  elected. 

The  Library  is  under  the  care  and  direction  of  the  Board  of  School 
Commissioners  of  Indianapohs.  The  president  is  Andrew  M.  Sweeney, 
and  the  other  members  are  Charles  W.  Moores,  Henry  C.  Sickels,  John 
H.  Emerick,  and  William  M.  Taylor. 


IRVINGTON. 
Bona  Thompson  Memorial  Library  of  Butler  College. 

The  Bona  Thompson  Memorial  Library  of  Butler  College,  the  official 
name  of  the  library  of  Butler  College,  Indianapolis,  Indiana,  was  opened 
for  use  January  11,  1904. 

The  building  stands  at  the  base  of  a  triangle  formed  by  the  inter- 
section of  University  and  Downey  avenues,  two  of  the  winding  streets 
of  Irvington,  the  suburb  of  Indianapolis  in  which  the  Library  is  located. 
In  form  it  is  almost  square,  resting  on  a  base  of  sawed  Bedford  lime- 
stone. The  high,  round  arched  windows,  the  simple,  yet  striking 
entrance,  the  stone  balustrade  which  surmounts  the  broad  cornice,  make 
it  an  excellent  specimen  of  modern  classic  architecture. 

The  entrance,  which  forms  a  portico,  is  a  copy  of  the  Erecthseum 
at  Athens.  Two  massive  Ionic  columns  support  a  capstone  bearing  the 
words  *  'Bona  Thompson  Memorial, ' '  in  low  relief.  Through  the  bronze 
doors  one  enters  the  marble  vestibule.  The  floor  is  of  tile— mosaic  in 
symbolic  designs.  On  each  wall,  to  the  side  entrance,  is  a  tablet.  One 
is  left  blank  for  bulletins.  The  other  bears  the  simple  carved  inscrip- 
tion: 


TO  THE  MEMORY  OF 

BONA   THOMPSON 

HER  PARENTS 

EDWARD  GARVIN  THOMPSON 

AND  MARY  PRUITT  THOMPSON 

BUILDED  THIS  HOUSE   THAT 

LOVED  WHILE  SHE  LIVED 

IN  OTHER  YEARS  SHE  MIGHT 

NOT  FAIL  OF  LOVE  HERE 

WHERE  HER  LIFE  WAS 

BRIEFLY  SPENT 

1878  1899 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  81 

The  ceiling  of  the  hall  is  arched  and  deeply  paneled.  The  frescoing 
of  the  ceiling  is  in  dark  terra  cotta  and  ecru.  The  walls  are  pale  blue 
to  the  dado,  then  dark  green. 

All  of  the  windows  are  of  leaded  prism  glass,  which  diffuses  the  light, 
but  casts  no  shadow  whatever. 

Passing  from  the  north  reading  room  one  comes  into  the  seminar 
room.  From  here  one  steps  into  the  librarian's  office,  the  center  of  the 
building,  under  the  great  dome  of  cathedral  glass.  On  the  rear  wall  of 
the  office,  in  full  view  of  the  entrance,  is  the  niche  for  the  portrait  of 
Bona  Thompson,  to  be  painted  by  T.  C.  Steele. 

So  perfect  is  the  arrangement  of  the  rooms  that  the  Hbrarian  seated 
at  her  desk  has  a  clear  view  of  both  reading  rooms,  the  vestibule  and 
the  entrance  ball. 

The  stackroom  is  at  the  rear,  running  the  entire  width  of  the  build- 
ing. Here  is  room  for  three  tiers  of  stacks,  in  which  60,000  volumes  can 
be  shelved.  A  complete  basement,  with  apartments  similar  to  the  first 
floor  arrangement,  affords  ample  room  for  all  future  necessities. 

The  building  is  fire  and  moisture  proof.  The  walls  are  double,  bound 
together  with  ?teel  bands  and  separated  by  an  air  space  that  makes  the 
inner  wall  impervious  to  any  moisture  that  may  get  into  the  outer  wall. 
The  air  space  is  also  utilized  for  ventilation  from  the  interior,  leading 
the  hot  or  impure  air  to  the  roof  and  expelling  it  at  the  apex  of  the 
copper  roof.  The  floor  is  of  steel  and  concrete  construction.  There  is 
comparatively  little  wood  in  the  structure.  The  counter  and  interior 
doors  are  mahogany,  and  the  tables  and  chairs  are  constructed  to  match 
in  color  and  style. 

The  seminar  room  is  furnished  with  rugs,  tables,  chairs  and  pictures, 
left  by  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Thompson  to  John  Thompson  and  his  sister,  who 
have  presented  them  to  the  College.  The  stacks  are  of  steel  construct- 
ion, bolted  to  the  concrete  floor  and  lighted  overhead  from  electric  con- 
duits. 

The  total  cost  of  the  work  was  $42,000,  all  of  which  was  amply  pro- 
vided for  by  Mr.  and  Mrs.  E.  C.  Thompson,  who  did  not  live  to  see  the 
fruit  of  their  generosity. 

The  Butler  College  Library,  of  which  the  Bona  Thompson  Memorial 
Library  is  successor,  has  an  existence  dating  from  the  founding  of  the 
College  in  1851.  From  it  were  removed  to  the  new  Library  13,000  vol- 
umes, which  number  is  being  increased  at  the  rate  of  200  to  500  volumes 


82  INDIANA  LIBRAMES 

annually.  The  College  expended  $500  per  year  for  the  maintenance  of 
the  library,  which  amount  was  derived  from  the  fees  of  the  College 
students.  Recent  Librarians  were  Prof.  D.  C.  Brown  and  Miss  Retta 
Bamhill.     Miss  Barnhill  is  now  Librarian  of  Bona  Thompson  Library. 

The  Bona  Thompson  Memorial  Library  has  an  arrangement  with  the 
Public  Library  of  Indianapolis  whereby  the  college  permits  the  use  of 
the  building  by  the  city  as  a  sub-station,  in  return  for  which  the  Public 
Library  is  responsible  for  the  attendance  and  care  of  the  building.  This 
arrangement  adds  several  thousand  volumes  to  the  shelves  of  the  Library, 
and  in  addition  furnishes  a  means  whereby  the  students  of  the  college 
and  other  visitors  of  the  Library  may  with  reasonable  dispatch  obtain 
from  the  Main  Branch  of  the  Public  Library  any  volumes  desired.  How- 
ever, the  two  branches  of  the  Library,  city  and  college,  are  conducted 
separately.  The  city  also  furnishes  a  large  number  of  popular  period- 
icals for  the  reading  rooms  to  supplement  those  of  the  college,  which 
number  forty-eight. 

The  Library  is  open  week  days  from  9  A.  M.  to  9  P.  M.,  for  all  library 
purposes  and  is  open  Sundays  from  3  to  6  p.  m.,  for  reading.  The  books 
are  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification.  While  the 
open  shelf  system  is  not  used,  persons  are  permitted  to  visit  the  stack 
room  when  special  reasons  require  it.  The  library  employs  regularly 
two  attendants  and  a  janitor.  The  attendants  work  a  total  each  of  fifty- 
one  hours  per  week.  Vacation  periods  of  two  weeks  annually  are  allowed, 
as  per  the  regulations  of  the  Public  Library  of  Indianapolis.  The  pres- 
ent attendants  are  Retta  V.  Bamhill  and  Margaret  Carlisle. 

The  Board  of  Trustees  of  the  Library  consists  of  the  following  mem- 
bers: *  Addison  F.  Armstrong,  Alembert  W.  Brayton,  Urban  C.  Brewer, 
Hilton  U.  Brown,  Howard  Cale,  *Charles  E.  Hollenbeck,  Joseph  I. 
Irwin,  Patrick  H.  Jameson,  Ovid  B.  Jameson,  F.  Rollin  Kautz,  John  A. 
Kautz,  Louis  J.  Morgan,  William  Mullendore,  Allen  B.  Philputt,  William 
D.  Starr,  Thomas  H.  Kuhn,  Charles  E.  Thornton. 

*Deceased..    Successor  not  yet  appointed. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  83 

JEFFERSONVILLE. 
Jeffersonville  Township  Public  Library. 

The  necessity  for  a  well  equipped  library  had  been  keenly  felt  by 
many  people  in  Jeffersonville,  Indiana,  for  a  long  time,  but  the  feeling 
did  not  take  definite  form  until  the  spring  of  1897. 

The  city  had  a  make-shift  library  in  the  form  of  one  of  the  old 
township  libraries,  established  many  years  before.  But  it  had  be- 
come so  involved  in  politics  that  it  was  only  valuable  as  giving  a 
* 'political  pull."  Being  kept  in  the  trustee's  office,  and  that  being  a 
place  where  men  congregated  to  talk  and  smoke,  made  it  an  unsuitable 
place  for  women  and  children  to  visit. 

The  Women's  Literary  Clubs  of  the  city  became  so  aroused  to  the 
condition  of  affairs  and  the  needs  of  the  people  for  a  library,  that  they 
determined  to  take  the  initiative  in  establishing  one. 

Accordingly,  at  the  suggestion  of  Miss  Hannah  Zulauf,  a  public- 
spirited  woman,  a  meeting  was  called,  at  which  each  literary  club  was 
represented  by  two  delegates.  They  had  a  staunch  friend  and  coadjutor 
in  the  person  of  Judge  John  F.  Reed,  a  retired  lawyer,  whose  aid  and 
counsel  were  invaluable  to  them. 

He  discovered  a  law  of  the  state,  passed  in  1852,  whereby  the  citi- 
zens of  the  township,  having  raised  a  subscription  fund  of  $1,000  and 
thereupon  forming  a  Library  Association,  might  ask  the  Board  of  County 
Commissioners  to  turn  over  the  Township  Library  to  the  Association  so 
formed. 

The  ladies  immediately  began  the  task  of  raising  the  amount  of  the 
subscription  in  shares  of  five  dollars  each.  In  a  few  months  $1,200  had 
been  subscribed,  when  to  their  great  disappointment  a  technicality  in 
the  law  was  discovered  that  had  to  be  surmounted  by  special  legislation. 
The  Legislature  meeting  but  once  in  two  years,  a  long  wait  had  to  be 
endured  with  patience  until  the  winter  of  1899,  when  a  law  was  passed 
satisfying  the  new  Association.  But  it  carried  with  it  an  obligation  that 
there  should  be  no  change  until  the  expiration  of  the  term  of  office  of  the 
Township  Trustee  then  serving.  Consequently,  it  was  not  until  Decem- 
ber 1,  1900,  that  the  Trustee  transferred  the  books,  to  the  number  of 
about  1,400  volumes,  and  other  property  of  the  old  Township  Library  to 
the  new  Association. 

A  pleasant  room  was  prepared  for  its  reception,  a  room  over  the 
Citizens'  National  Bank,  and  given,  rent  free,  by  that   institution.    The 


84  INDIANA   LIBRARIES  , 

Library  was  opened  on  December  17,  1900,  under  the  name  of  the  Jeffer- 
sonville  Township  Public  Library. 

The  subscription  money,  as  it  was  paid,  was  used  for  the  purchase 
of  books.  So  the  Library  opened  with  about  1,700  volumes.  The  income 
was  from  a  tax  levy  of  one  cent  on  each  one  hundred  dollars  worth  of 
property  as  assessed  in  the  township,  giving  the  Library  about  $550  a 
year. 

Miss  Bertha  Poindexter  was  secured  as  librarian,  and  she  has  worked 
earnestly  for  the  upbuilding  of  the  Library.  The  books  are  classified 
according  to  the  Dewey  classification,  and  from  the  first  the  public  has 
had  access  to  all  the  shelves,  except  fiction. 

The  librarian  exerted  every  effort  to  make  the  library  attractive, 
and  it  soon  became  a  most  popular  institution.  No  special  work  has  been 
done  with  the  schools  except  what  has  been  done  personally  through  the 
teachers.  The  librarian  finds  bulletin  work  an  effective  means  of  inter- 
esting the  children,  but  no  work  can  be  done  with  the  children  except  in 
a  small  way,  because  of  the  crowded  condition  of  the  Library. 

It  still  occupies  the  same  room  in  which  it  was  opened  three  years 
ago,  and  it  has  grown  to  3,160  volumes.  The  same  librarian  is  in  charge, 
and  she  has  no  assistant.  The  hours  are  short,  the  Library  being  open 
each  day  (except  Sunday)  from  2  p.  M.  to  5:30  p.  m.,  and  Saturday  from 
9  A.  M.  to  12  M.  A  large  increase  in  the  patronage,  especially  of  the 
reading  room,  could  be  attained  by  an  evening  opening,  but  the  facilities 
are  not  suitable  as  yet. 

Eight  current  magazines  are  to  be  found  on  the  reading  tables  and 
they  are  used  as  much  as  time  and  space  will  permit.  In  1903,  600  vol- 
umes were  added  to  the  Library.  The  books  are  selected  with  the  great- 
est care  and  in  point  of  usefulness  this  Library  is  second  to  none  of  its 
size  in  the  state. 

The  present  Board  of  Directors,  a  majority  of  whom  have  served 
from  the  organization  of  the  Association,  are:  President,  J.  E.  Taggart; 
secretary.  Miss  Mary  Voigt;  treasurer,  J.  C.  Zulauf ;  Miss  Cord  Warder, 
Miss  Eva  Luke,  and  H.  M.  Frank. 

Jeffersonville  has  a  population  of  10,774.  The  township  outside,  to 
whom  the  Library  is  free,  numbers  about  5,000  more.  In  1903  the  num- 
ber of  books  issued  for  home  use  was  17,244,   which  is  an  average  of 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  85 

more  than  one  to  each  inhabitant.  There  are  now  1,400  names  on  the 
register  of  borrowers,  and  more  are  being  added  daily. 

Soon  after  the  Library  became  estabHshed  the  idea  was  conceived  of 
asking  Mr.  Carnegie  for  money  with  which  to  erect  a  building.  Again 
Miss  Zulauf  took  the  initiative,  and  the  correspondence  was  started  that 
resulted  in  securing  a  donation  of  $15,000.  A  beautiful  site  was  chosen 
in  Warder  park,  near  the  center  of  the  city.  The  comer  stone  of  the 
new  building  was  laid  September  19,  1903.  It  is  to  be  of  Bedford  stone, 
and  the  style  is  that  of  the  Italian  Renaissance;  a  beautiful  structure, 
complete  in  every  detail. 

Those  who  have  worked  and  waited  so  long  and  patiently  for  this 
cause,  hope  in  a  few  months  more,  to  see  the  consummation  of  their 
desire— a  well  equipped,  up-to-date  Library  in  a  building  of  its  own. 


KOKOMO. 
KoKOMO  Public  Library. 

With  all  the  improved  Library  laws  on  the  statute  books  of  Indiana, 
the  Kokomo  Public  Library  still  clings  to  the  old  and  tried,  under  which 
it  was  organized— the  law  of  1883,  giving  school  boards  of  cities  and 
towns  the  power  to  establish  free  public  libraries. 

Among  the  first  to  take  advantage  of  this  law  after  its  enactment, 
the  Kokomo  School  Board  composed  of  A.  C.  Armstrong,  Dr.  I.  C.  John- 
son, and  W.  E.  Blacklidge,  levied  a  tax  of  one  cent  on  the  hundred 
dollars  for  a  Free  Public  Library.  This  small  levy  brought  to  the  sup- 
port of  the  Library  about  ninety  dollars  per  annum.  With  J.  C.  Leach 
as  librarian,  the  Library  was  thrown  open  to  the  public  in  December, 
1885,  forty  books  having  been  purchased  and  placed  upon  the  shelves. 
One  small  case  in  one  of  the  High  School  recitation  rooms  was  ample 
room  for  Library  purposes,  the  librarian  being  present  each  Thursday 
afternoon  for  the  distribution  of  books.  Naturally  these  books  were 
largely  limited  to  high  school  pupils  and  their  teachers.  The  recitation 
room  was  soon  outgrown  and  the  Library  was  transferred  to  the  Super- 
intendent's office,  the  time  of  opening  being  changed  to  Saturday  after- 
noons during  term  time.  The  next  move  was  to  an  entire  room  on  the 
top  floor  of  the  school  building  and  the  time  of  opening  extended  to  Sat- 
urday afternoons  of  the  entire  year.  The  Library  having  now  grown 
into  an  imposing  one  of  3,800  volumes,  it  was  thought  worthy  of  a  place 


86  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

in  the  City  Building  and  accordingly  the  council  donated  a  room  or  rather 
two  rooms  for  such  a  purpose.  The  levy  was  then  increased  to  three 
cents  and  the  Library  was  growing  in  usefulness  and  popularity.  At 
this  time  Mr.  Leach  classified  the  Library  under  the  Perkin's  system 
and  made  a  printed  catalogue. 

The  City  Building  was  soon  outgrown  and  the  Trustees  rented  a 
room  in  a  down  town  office  building  and  the  Library  hours  were  changed 
from  Saturday  afternoons  to  each  afternoon  of  the  week  with  an  all  day 
opening  on  Saturday. 

Mr.  Leach  finding  other  cares  too  numerous  to  devote  any  more  time 
to  library  management,  Miss  Moreland  who  had  been  his  faithful  assist- 
ant for  some  time  took  charge  of  the  Library  until  the  spring  of  1900, 
when  Miss  Fitzgerald  was  appointed  librarian.  During  this  time  the 
library  has  been  steadily  growing  under  the  management  of  the  School 
Board,  the  shelf  list  showing  in  the  neighborhood  of  8,000  volumes. 
During  1899  the  Hbrarian,  assisted  by  Miss  Belle  Hanna,  of  the  Green- 
castle  Public  Library,  commenced  the  re-classification  of  the  Library 
under  the  Dewey  classification.  Miss  Fitzgerald,  after  her  appointment 
in  1900,  immediately  took  up  the  remainder  of  the  work  of  re-classifica- 
tion under  the  Dewey  classification,  and  now  the  Library  consisting 
of  10,000  volumes,  is  all  classified,  with  a  card  catalogue  according  to 
Cutter  rules. 

In  1901,  the  Library  having  again  outgrown  its  home  was  moved  to 
commodious  rooms  in  the  Blacklidge  block.  The  hours  of  opening  were 
extended  from  afternoons  alone  to  afternoon  and  evening,  and  Sunday 
opening.  A  reading  room  was  opened,  several  periodicals  and  the  daily 
papers  being  subscribed  for.  The  periodicals  now  number  sixty,  with  an 
average  daily  attendance  in  the  reading  room  of  twenty,  and  an  average 
daily  circulation  of  125  volumes.  An  average,  perhaps,  of  500  volumes 
per  year  is  added  to  the  library,  and  this,  too,  without  any  increase  in 
the  rate  of  taxation.  The  three-cent  tax  now  nets  the  library  in  the 
neighborhood  of  $1,800  per  year,  the  increased  income  coming  from  the 
growth  of  Kokomo's  population  and  increased  taxable  property,  the  last 
census  giving  Kokomo  a  population  of  12,500,  with  an  estimated  wealth 
of  $7,500,000. 

The  Library  is  in  charge  of  the  librarian  and  one  assistant,  the 
assistant  averaging  five  hours  a  day  and  the  librarian  nine  hours  a  day. 
All  the  shelves  of  the  Kokomo  Public  Library  are  open  to  the  public  and 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  87 

the  Library  is  made  as  free  as  it  is  possible  to  make  a  public  institution. 
No  special  work  is  done  for  the  children  with  the  exception  of  special 
book  lists  and  some  bulletin  work. 

In  the  fall  of  1902  a  gift  of  $25,000  was  accepted  from  Mr.  Carnegie 
on  the  usual  terms  for  a  Library  building.  This  building  is  now  in  the 
process  of  construction  and  will  be  ready  for  occupancy  early  in  the  sum- 
mer. It  is  a  one  story  classic  building,  Bedford  stone,  with  hard  wood 
interior  finishings.  The  present  board,  Mr.  Richard  Ruddell,  Mr.  Louis 
Mehlig,  and  Mr.  W.  E.  Blacklidge,  the  latter  being  also  a  member  of 
the  first  library  board,  have  had  entire  charge  of  the  planning  and  man- 
agement of  the  new  building  and  will  levy  the  necessary  increased  tax 
for  its  maintenance. 

KoKOMO  Public  Library,  1904. 


LAFAYETTE. 
Lafayette  Public  Library. 
The  first  librarian  of  the  Lafayette  PubHc  Library— Mrs.  Jeanette 
B.  Hyde— and  also  her  successor,  Miss  Eulara  Miller,  did  most  eflficient 
work  with  a  library  of  some  8,000  volumes— the  gift  of  J.  J.  Perrin,— 
in  1882.  The  Library  was  established  at  that  time  under  the  Indiana  law 
passed  in  1881.  Mrs  Virginia  Stein  the  present  incumbent,  took  charge 
of  the  library  in  1888.  It  was  then,  as  it  had  been  from  the  first,  in  the 
high  school  building  in  cramped  and  undesirable  quarters.  In  the  spring 
of  1901,  the  Library  received  as  a  gift,  from  Mrs.  W.  F.  Reynolds,  an 
oldfashioned  house  situated  on  a  goodly  piece  of  ground.  This  house 
was,  back  in  the  fifties,  one  of  the  handsomest  dwellings  in  the  town  of 
Lafayette.  The  main  building  is  of  plastered  brick  with  a  quaint  iron 
portico  over  the  door.  With  the  wistaria  and  honeysuckle  vines  over  the 
front;  the  oldfashioned  flower  garden  at  one  side  planted  with  marigolds, 
daffodils  and  hollyhocks;  the  gray  stone  wall  across  the  front  yard; 
the  old  brick  walks  leading  to  the  front  door  and  to  the  wings,  the  place 
seems  a  charming  home  for  some  20,000  books  to  live  in.  Indeed,  the 
charm  of  the  place  caused  a  stranger  to  say  recently:  "How  pleasant! 
Don't  let  anyone  ask  for  a  Carnegie  Library. "  Sometime  previous  to 
the  Library's  possession,  the  building  was  occupied  by  the  Y.  M.  C.  A. 
This  organization  had  built  at  the  back  a  gymnasium  some  sixty  by 
forty  feet.    This  gymnasium  makes  the  most  delightful  sitting  room  for 


88  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

the  books  when  they  are  not  otherwise  engaged.  There  they  may  enjoy 
the  Hght  and  sunshine  and  good  air.  They  never  can  become  musty 
with  the  high  raftered  ceiHng  over  their  heads. 

Though  the  books  are  so  comfortable  here,  they  are  always  ready  to 
be  taken  to  the  reading  and  reference  rooms  on  one  side  of  the  hall,  and 
there  impart  their  stored  up  knowledge  to  the  dozens  of  seekers  after 
information.  And  while  the  building  is  not  adapted  to  free  access  to 
the  shelves,  the  books  are  so  well  classified  according  to  the  Dewey 
classification,  and  the  librarian  and  her  two  assistants  are  so  anxious  to 
help  and  please,  that  from  9  A.  M.  to  8  P.  M.,  six  days  in  the  week,  the 
library  is  a  bureau  of  information.  Not  only  are  the  books  ready  for  the 
worker  in  the  library,  but  they  are  willing  to  pass  into  the  hands  of  some 
2,500  tax-payers  to  be  taken  to  their  homes.  During  the  last  year 
76,842  books  have  accepted  these  invitation^,  and  many  of  these  same 
tax-payers  seem  to  think  that  the  payment  of  the  Library  tax  of  one- 
third  of  a  mill  on  a  dollar  entitles  them  to  the  destruction  of  the  books. 

I  wonder  how  books  can  bear  to  trust  themselves  in  the  hands  of 
most  patrons.  I  suppose  some  of  the  lighter  novels  don't  care,  they 
know  they  are  short-lived  anyhow;  but  I  can  imagine  that  self-respect- 
ing books  of  any  character  must  go  out  with  fear  and  trembling,  not 
knowing  in  what  mangled  condition  they  may  return,  perhaps  with  torn 
and  draggled  dress,  their  faces  disfigured  with  scratches,  their  leaves 
forced  apart  with  all  kinds  of  book  marks,  from  spectacles  and  hat  pins 
to  button  hooks  and  fragments  of  wearing  apparel.  1  once  knew  of 
Barrie's  "Little  Minister"  suffering  the  indignity  of  having  a  cheese 
rind  thrust  between  its  pages.  What  an  insult  to  a  minister  of  the  old 
Scotch  Church!  The  books  have  this  left  to  be  thankful  for— they  are 
not  permitted  to  travel  outside  of  the  city  limits.  Perhaps  knowing  too 
that  there  are  some  800  new  volumes  coming  into  the  library  every  year, 
some  of  these  poor  worn  out  books  may  hope  to  live  again  in  a  new  dress. 

However,  the  hard  worked  books  are  much  relieved  and  assisted  in 
entertaining  the  public  by  some  thirty  magazines  who  make  monthly  and 
weekly  calls  on  the  library,  and,  coming  as  they  do,  with  most  gorgeous 
make  up  of  pictures  and  typographical  work,  one  feels  as  if  here  is  all 
you  wish  for  of  beauty  and  information.  Indeed  our  sciences  grow  so 
apace,  and  new  discoveries  follow  each  other  with  such  rapidity,  that 
only  the  weekly  issues  of  the  magazines  can  keep  up  with  them.  The 
Library  is  a  most  wonderful  place  and  here  in  Lafayette  by  the  trifling 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  89 

expenditure  of  some  $3,500  by  the  city,  the  public  has  access  to  the 
immortal  poems,  the  wisdom  of  the  sages,  the  newest  inventions  and  the 
last  clever  novel.  If  you  look  at  it  from  a  commercial  point  of  view, 
where  can  you  get  so  much  for  your  money?  Real  workers  in  any  library 
become  imbued  with  the  spirit  of  the  place. 

The  Lafayette  Hbrarian  and  her  assistants  are  like  most  others, 
when  they  take  their  month's  vacation  they  are  apt  to  drift  into  other 
libraries  to  see  how  they  are  managed.  They  are  almost  sure  to  do  this 
unless  they  take  to  the  woods  where  there  are  no  books. 

Mrs.  Virginia  Stein. 


LAFAYETTE. 
Purdue  University  Library. 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for 
historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning 
this  library. 


90  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

LA  PORTE. 
La  Porte  Public  Library. 

By  the  donation  of  the  La  Porte  Library  and  Natural  History  Asso- 
ciation the  city  of  La  Porte,  Indiana,  on  February  22,  1897,  was  made 
the  owner  of  a  library  property  consisting  of  a  library  building  and  lot, 
near  the  center  of  town,  and  nearly  7,000  volumes,  said  property  to  be 
used  as  a  free  pubHc  Hbrary. 

The  La  Porte  Library  and  Natural  History  Association  was  formed 
in  1863  to  give  lecture  courses,  and  brought  to  La  Porte  some  of  the 
foremost  men  and  women  in  the  lecture  field,  viz:  Miss  Clara  Barton, 
Sumner,  Horace  Greely,  R.  W.  Emerson,  Wendell  Phillips,  Garrison, 
and  others  of  like  prominence. 

These  lectures  proved  so  popular  that  the  association  accumulated 
some  money  which  they  wished  to  use  for  the  benefit  of  the  city. 

Judge  A.  L.  Osborn  proposed  that  they  start  a  library,  which  was 
done.  In  the  meantime,  the  Maclure  Working  Men's  Institute  was  dis- 
banded because  of  the  removal  of  the  railroad  shops  from  here  to  Elk- 
hart. The  books  donated  by  William  Maclure  were  transferred  to 
the  new  association,  thus  insuring  their  continued  use  by  the  public. 
The  library  was  a  subscription  library  until  given  to  the  city  in  1897. 
Since  then  it  has  been  free  to  all  residents  of  the  city  and  all  students  of 
our  school,  non-residents  having  the  privilege  of  taking  books  out  upon 
the  payment  of  a  small  subscription  fee. 

The  La  Porte  Public  Library  was  organized  under  the  law  of  1881, 
which  placed  it  in  the  care  of  the  Board  of  Education,  with  the  authority 
to  levy  a  tax  of  not  more  than  one  mill  on  the  dollar  of  all  taxable  prop- 
erty of  the  city.  The  present  levy  is  one  half  of  the  allowance  and 
brings  about  $2,000  per  year.  With  this  sum  a  librarian  and  assistant 
are  hired,  each  of  whom  work  sixty  hours  per  week;  also  a  janitor  who 
devotes  half  as  much  time.  The  librarian  and  assistant  each  have  two 
weeks  vacation  during  the  year. 

About  700  volumes  are  added  each  year  and  sixty-three  periodicals 
subscribed  for.  Magazines  are  bound  and  worn  books  rebound  as  needed. 
There  are  at  present  10,550  volumes  on  the  shelves  to  which  the  pubHc 
have  free  access.  The  circulation  is  24,445  volumes  per  year,  which  is 
an  average  of  80  volumes  per  day. 

The  city  has  a  population  of  10,000,  of  which  number  1,426  persons 
hold  library  cards  at  the  present  time. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  91 

The  children's  department  is  well  patronized,  and  has  a  good  selec- 
tions of  books  and  the  use  of  two  rooms.  Considerable  reference  work 
is  done  for  students  and  club  members,  as  well  as  for  the  general  public. 

The  library  is  classified  under  the  decimal  classification  and  is  open 
from  9  A.  M.  to  9  P.  M.,  daily,  except  legal  holidays  and  Sundays. 

The  building  has  two  stories  and  a  basement.  The  main  floor  is  de- 
voted to  general  reading  room,  reference  books,  children's  reading  room, 
students'  reference  room,  Hbrarian's  office,  work  room  and  stack  room. 
The  second  floor  contains  a  large  assembly  hall  in  which  are  the  public 
documents,  of  which  there  is  a  good  working  collection,  and  a  smaller 
room  devoted  to  the  museum  of  Indian  relics  and  curiosities,  bequeathed 
to  the  library  by  the  La  Porte  Library  and  Natural  History  Association; 
also  a  large  collection  of  Indian  relics  found  in  this  county. 

The  heating  plant  and  lavatories  are  located  in  the  basement. 

Jennie  B.  Jessup  was  appointed  librarian  by  the  La  Porte  Library 
and  Natural  History  Association  in  1894,  and  continued  through  the 
change  to  a  free  Public  Library  until  August,  1897,  when  Miss  Emily  A. 
Vail  was  appointed.  She  retained  her  position  until  January  2,  1902, 
when,  upon  her  resignation,  Jennie  B.  Jessup  was  re-appointed. 

The  Board  of  Education  and  Library  Trustees  consist  of  F.  W. 
Meissner,  president;  J.  B.  Rupel,  secretary;  and  E.  C.  Hall,  treasurer. 

Jennie  B.  Jessup,  Librarian. 


92  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

LEBANON. 
Lebanon  Public  Library. 

The  Library  Board  of  the  Lebanon  Public  Library  was  appointed 
under  act  of  legislature  approved  March  4,  1901.  The  first  meeting  of 
the  Board  after  appointment  of  its  members,  was  held  October  31,  in 
the  office  of  R.  H.  Harney,  county  superintendent  of  schools. 

The  initial  movement  in  behalf  of  a  library  was  begun  about  the  first 
of  the  same  month.  Upon  call  of  C.  A.  Peterson,  city  superintendent  of 
schools,  a  meeting  was  held  at  the  county  superintendent's  office,  Octo- 
ber 8,  1902,  at  which  meeting  Ex- Judge  T.  J.  Terhune  presided.  The 
task  of  raising  the  required  subscription  was  undertaken  by  Judge  B.  S. 
Higgins  and  about  $3,100  was  subscribed  under  solicitation  of  Messrs. 
Higgins  and  Terhune.  The  city  council  promptly  agreed  to  make  the 
levy  required  by  law.  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  was  asked  to  make  a 
donation  for  the  erection  of  a  building  for  library  purposes.  On  Janu- 
ary 6,  1903,  Mr.  Carnegie  agreed  to  give  $12,500  for  the  purpose.  On 
April  22,  1903,  Mr.  Carnegie  increased  his  donation  to  $15,000. 

On  June  26,  1903,  the  contract  for  erection  of  a  stone  library  building 
according  to  plans  and  specifications  of  Messrs.  Krutsch  &  Co.,  arch- 
itects, was  let  to  Charles  J.  Andrews,  for  $14,238,  which,  with  arch- 
itects' fees  absorbed  the  $15,000  given  by  Mr.  Carnegie. 

The  building  is  now  in  process  of  construction.  There  has  been 
much  delay.  The  foundation  is  in.  The  greater  part  of  the  material 
is  on  the  ground. 

No  librarian  has  been  appointed  and  no  books  purchased. 

The  lot  on  which  the  Hbrary  building  is  being  erected  is  at  the  corner 
of  the  public  square  and  cost  $4,000,  which  amount  was  raised  by  sub- 
scription. 

The  officers  and  members  of  the  library  board  are  as  follows;  A.  C. 
Dailey,  president;  A.  Wysong,  vice-president;  Mrs.  E.  T.  Lane,  treasurer; 
Mrs.  R.  H.  Harney,  secretary;  T.  J.  Terhune,  Mrs.  R.  W.  Harrison,  W. 
S.  Ritchie. 

Mrs.  R.  H.  Harney,   Librarian. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  93 

LOGANSPORT. 
LoGANSPORT  Public  Library. 

On  May  20,  1890,  a  number  of  women  of  the  city  of  Logansport, 
members  of  the  local  Women's  Christian  Temperance  Union,  met  to 
formulate  a  plan  for  the  establishment  of  a  free  reading  room,  in  the 
down  town  district  of  the  city,  to  reclaim  from  the  streets  those  who 
might  otherwise  be  disposed  to  spend  their  time  in  idleness  or  worse. 

These  ladies  met  with  encouragement,  and  on  Saturday,  June  28, 
1890,  the  room  was  formally  opened  to  the  public.  It  was  centrally 
located  in  the  business  district,  and  Miss  Elizabeth  McCuUough  was 
placed  in  charge.  Many  books  and  magazines  were  donated  by  the  citi- 
zens, and  on  July  1,  1890,  a  committee  of  ladies  waited  upon  the  mayor 
and  common  council  of  the  city,  with  a  memorial  that  a  free  circulating 
library  be  put  in  operation  at  as  early  a  date  as  possible,  citing  as  a  rea- 
son the  generous  attendance  and  interest  manifested  in  the  work  begun 
by  them  in  a  small  way. 

Prompted  by  this  beginning,  the  city  council  made  a  tax  levy  for 
library  purposes  of  one-third  of  a  mill  on  each  dollar  of  taxable  property 
in  the  city,  for  the  purpose  of  creating  a  fund,  preparatory  to  establish- 
ing a  Public  Library  in  connection  with  the  public  schools  of  the  city, 
under  the  general  school  law  of  the  state,  authorizing  boards  of  school 
trustees  to  establish  such  libraries. 

By  the  time  the  spring  collection  of  taxes  was  received  in  1894,  a 
considerable  sum  of  money  was  available,  and  the  board  of  school  trus- 
tees then  composed  of  Messrs.  James  P.  Martin,  Jehu  T.  Elliott  and 
Valentine  C.  Hanawalt,  purchased  the  residence  of  the  late  Hon.  William 
Z.  Stuart,  well  down  in  the  city,  for  the  purpose  of  establishing  a  Public 
Library  therein. 

In  June,  1894,  Mr.  Hanawalt  was  succeeded  by  Mr.  Q.  A.  Myers,  a 
graduate  or  Dartmouth  college,  acquainted  with  some  of  the  large 
libraries  of  the  country,  who,  with  his  associates,  Messrs.  Martin  and 
Elliott,  at  once  set  about  with  zeal,  in  conjunction  with  the  librarian,  in 
thoroughly  organizing  a  Public  Library.  They  appointed  a  large  com- 
mittee of  representative  men  and  women  to  make  the  selection  of  the 
first  large  installment  of  books,  and  made  the  purchase  as  recommended 
by  this  committee;  in  the  meantime  preparing  the  building  for  the  pur- 
poses, not  only  of  a  library,  but  of  a  reading  room,  and  the  Library  and 


94  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

Reading  Room  were  formally  opened  November  1,  1894.  The  Library 
now  contains  14,000  well  selected  volumes,  of  which  8,000  bound  volumes 
are  the  collection  of  the  late  Hon.  Horace  P.  Biddle,  purchased  upon  his 
death  in  1901,  many  of  which  are  rare  and  valuable.  In  addition  to  the 
bound  volumes  in  that  collection,  the  pamphlets  and  newspaper  files  are 
believed  to  be  the  most  complete  in  the  state.  Up  to  this  date  the  aver- 
age number  of  volumes  added  annually  is  500.  In  the  reading  room  are 
kept  thirty  of  the  leading  magazines,  and  Chicago,  Indianapolis  and 
local  newspapers.  The  Library  and  Reading  Room  are  maintained  by 
taxation,  the  rate  of  levy  being  four  mills  on  the  dollar,  amounting  to 
an  annual  income  of  $3,500.  The  annual  circulation  is  27,600  volumes, 
making  a  daily  average  of  ninety  volumes.  In  a  population  of  about 
20,000  there  are  480  borrowers  registered,  only  residents  of  the  city 
having  the  borrowers'  privilege. 

The  Library  is  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classifica- 
tion and  supplied  with  a  card  catalogue. 

By  the  munificence  of  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie,  a  beautiful  new  Bed- 
ford buff  limestone,  fire  proof  building  is  rapidly  nearing  completion, 
the  library  being  temporarily  housed  in  somewhat  Hmited  quarters. 
This  building  has  a  large  reading  room  for  adults,  and  one  for  children; 
stack  room  capacity  for  40,000  volumes;  heated  with  hot  water;  equipped 
with  gas  and  electricity  for  lighting,  and  with  all  modern  conveniences. 
It  also  has  an  auditorium  in  the  basement,  with  a  seating  capacity  of 
250,  for  small  assemblages  and  club  work;  a  packing  and  labehng  room. 
Librarian's  room,  reference  rooms,  hoists,  etc. 

The  acquisition  of  this  beautiful  building  is  largely  due  to  the  efforts 
of  Mr.  Q.  A.  Myers,  and  his  associates  on  the  board  of  trustees,  Messrs. 
Elliott  and  James  D.  McNitt,   the  successor  of  Mr.  Martin. 

The  Library  and  Reading  Room  are  open  every  week  day  from  9  A.  m. 
to  9  p.  M.  except  legal  holidays.  The  pubHc  has  access  to  the  shelves. 
There  is  a  children's  room  and  bulletin  work  is  kept  up.  Special  work 
is  done  with  clubs,  and  especially  with  the  schools  of  which  the  Library 
is  really  a  part.  The  Library  being  near  the  high  school  building,  special 
attention  is  given  to  the  direction  of  the  high  school  pupils  in  their  daily 
work  and  reading. 

At  this  time,  two  persons  are  employed  in  the  Library,  during  the 
whole  time  the  Library  is  open,  with  a  vacation  of  two  weeks,  annually, 
at  the  selection  of  the  employe. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  95 

The  Librarian,  from  the  opening  of  the  Free  Reading  Room  to  this 
time,  has  been  Miss  Elizabeth  McCullough,  and  the  present  members  of 
the  board  of  trustees  are  Messrs.  J.  T.  Elliott,  James  D.  McNitt,  and 
Walter  A.  Osmer,  the  latter  having  succeeded  Mr.  Myers  in  June,    1903. 

The  Library  is  fortunate  in  securing  the  Biddle  collection,  which  is 
in  itself  one  of  the  rarest  in  bound  volumes  and  is  especially  rich  in  his- 
torical interest,  in  the  pamphlets,  newspapers  and  unbound  volumes,  and 
when  in  the  new  quarters  and  properly  arranged,  will  furnish  a  rare 
opportunity  to  the  student  for  historical  research  and  wide  information. 


MADISON. 
Madison  Public  Library. 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for 
historical  sketch  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning  this 
library. 


MARION. 
MARION  Public  Library. 

The  Marion  Public  Library  was  established  under  the  law  of  1883,  by 
Professor  Hamilton  S.  McRae,  superintendent  of  the  Marion  Public 
Schools  with  the  assistance  of  the  board  of  school  trustees. 

On  June  4,  1885,  the  first  levy  of  one-third  mill  on  the  dollar  of  all 
taxable  property  of  the  city  of  Marion  was  made  for  the  purpose  of  the 
support  of  this  Library;  this  levy  was  increased  at  different  times  and 
has  always  been  maintained.  At  present  it  is  seven  cents  on  each  $100 
of  taxable  property. 

The  Marion  Public  Library  was  fully  established  in  July,  1888,  with 
Prof.  J.  K.  Waltz,  superintendent  of  the  Marion  city  schools,  as 
librariarian.  The  Library  was  open  to  the  public  on  Saturdays  only. 
Prof.  Waltz  was  succeeded  at  the  end  of  eight  months,  by  the  present 
librarian,  Mrs.  Ida  R.  Gruwell. 

The  Library  opened  with  about  1,000  volumes,  with  some  donations 
by  the  citizens.  In  1898  the  number  of  volumes  had  increased  to  5,000. 
This  increase  has  continued  until  at  present  there  are  in  the  Library 


96  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

10,700  volumes  and  to  these  are  added  from  one  to  two  thousand  yearly. 

Since  1897  the  pubUc  has  had  access  to  the  shelves,  with  very  satis- 
factory results,  this  having  been  of  more  benefit  to  the  public  than  any 
other  feature  of  the  work,  and  having  done  much  to  inrease  the  circula- 
tion. The  circulation  for  the  year  1903  was  51,040.  The  Dewey  deci- 
mal classification  is  used  in  this  library. 

The  reading  room  was  established  in  1897,  with  a  few  magazines  and 
three  newspapers;  this  department  of  the  Library  has  advanced  until  it 
contains  fifty  magazines  and  fifteen  newspapers  at  the  present  time. 
The  number  of  readers  registered  for  the  year  1903  was  17,465. 

Since  1891  the  Library  has  been  open  daily  except  Sunday,  and  since 
1895  has  been  open  from  9  a.  m.,  to  9  P.  M.  Beginning  with  the  year 
1904  the  Library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.  until  10  P.  M.  On  Sunday  the 
reading  room  is  open  from  9  A.  M. ,  to  10  P.  M. 

With  a  population  of  20,000  it  became  necessary  to  provide  a  library 
building.  In  the  year  1900  it  was  decided  by  the  board  of  school  trus- 
tees, consisting  of  Dr.  J.  H.  Forrest,  A.  C.  Jay  and  George  Webster,  Jr. , 
to  make  application  to  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  for  $50,000  for  a  library 
building.  This  request  was  granted,  and  the  city  of  Marion  provided  a 
suitable  site  for  the  erection  of  such  a  building  and  pledged  itself  by 
resolution  of  the  city  council  to  spend,  from  taxation,  not  less  than 
$5,000  yearly  on  the  support  of  its  Library.  The  library  building  was 
completed  and  dedicated  on  December  5,  1902. 

On  Saturday  afternoon  an  hour  is  set  apart  for  special  work  for  the 
children.  Special  programs  are  arranged  for  all  days  of  national  import- 
ance.    Bulletin  work  is  also  made  a  feature  of  the  Library  work. 

Under  an  act  of  the  general  assembly  of  the  state  of  Indiana, 
approved  March  7,  1903,  Chapter  102,  provision  was  made  by  which  the 
common  council  of  the  city  of  Marion,  Indiana,  had  power  to  elect  a 
library  board  of  from  three  to  five  members.  On  January  5,  1904,  the 
common  council  of  the  city  of  Marion  adopted  a  resolution  making  a 
change  in  the  management  of  the  Library,  and  transferring  it  from  the 
board  of  school  trustees  under  the  authority  of  said  act,  to  a  Library 
Board  to  be  composed  of  five  members;  and  said  city  council  elected  as 
members  of  said  new  Board  the  following  named  persons:  J.  H.  Forrest, 
Robert  C.  Houston,  G.  A.  Henry,  W.  A.  Fankboner  and  M.  B.  McFeeley. 
This  new  Library  Board  has  been  since  their  appointment  in  charge 
of  said  Library,  controlling  and  managing  Library  affairs  in  this  city. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  97 

In  this  connection  attention  is  called  to  a  special  provision  in  this 
new  law  by  which  the  benefits  and  privileges  of  the  Library  may  under 
certain  conditions,  be  extended  to  the  citizens  of  the  entire  county  of 
Grant,  as  well  as  to  the  citizens  of  the  city  of  Marion.  This  provision 
of  the  law,  if  acted  upon  by  the  county  authorities,  will  at  least  double 
the  income  of  the  Library  and  also  more  than  double  the  field  of  its  use- 
fulness, because  under  the  provisions  of  this  act,  the  entire  county, 
through  the  action  of  the  county  authorities  in  making  appropriation 
provided  for  in  the  law,  will  become  entitled  to  the  privileges  of  the 
Library.  Should  the  county  authorities  neglect  or  refuse  to  avail  them- 
selves of  the  provisions  of  the  law,  any  municipal  subdivision  of  the 
county,  such  as  township,  city,  town  or  village,  may  enter  into  arrange- 
ments with  the  Library  Board,  whereby  the  residents  of  such  municipal 
subdivision  will  become  entitled  to  the  benefits  and  privileges  of  this 
Library.  In  case  either  the  county,  or  any  governmental  subdivision  of 
it  declines  to  make  the  arrangements  with  the  Library  Board  as  contem- 
plated by  the  law,  the  Board  may  adopt  a  rule  by  which  the  benefits  and 
privileges  of  the  Library  may  be  extended  to  residents  outside  of  the 
city  of  Marion  upon  such  terms  and  conditions  as  such  Board  may  pre- 
scribe. 

Another  feature  of  the  law  which  was  an  important  factor  in 
influencing  its  adoption  is  that  it  brings  the  control  of  the  Library  and 
Library  affairs  directly  within  the  power  of  those  who  are  the  immediate 
representatives  of  the  people  whose  taxes  support  the  Library.  Under 
the  old  management  when  the  Library  was  in  control  of  a  board  of 
school  trustees,  it  was  rather  in  the  nature  of  an  annex  to  the  public 
school  system  of  the  city  than  an  independent  educational  institution. 
The  school  trustees  were  not  required  by  the  law  to  account  to  the  com- 
mon council  of  the  city  for  their  expenditures  of  city  taxes  raised  for 
library  purposes,  but  made  their  Reports  in  such  matters  to  the  auditor 
of  the  county  in  connection  with  their  reports  to  such  auditor  on  school 
matters.  The  present  law  requires  the  Library  Board  to  furnish  to  the 
city  council  at  stated  periods  itemized  reports  of  all  its  receipts  and  dis- 
bursements, coupled  with  the  proper  vouchers. 


98  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

MARKLE. 
The  Markle  Library. 

The  Markle  Library  was  founded  September  6,  1895.  Although  this 
is  a  public  library  no  money  has  yet  been  taken  from  the  town  treasury 
to  defray  expenses.  The  people  as  a  rule  had  long-  been  desirous  of 
literary  improvements,  but  never  thought  it  convenient  to  invest  money 
taken  from  tax  payers,  and  use  it  thus.  An  entertainment  was  planned 
and  the  proceeds  were  used  in  securing  literature.  After  seeing  the  suc- 
cess of  this  undertaking  other  entertainments  and  suppers  were  provided 
and  liow  the  town  has  a  nice  little  library.  The  Library  was  founded  not 
only  to  better  the  literary  tastes  of  citizens,  but  also  to  help  the  prog- 
ress of  our  schools.  Professor  P.  H.  Beck,  then  principle  of  the  schools, 
was  the  most  prominent  person  in  organizing. 

The  Library  at  present  contains  850  books,  besides  a  large  number 
of  public  documents  and  reports.  Every  year  the  state  reading  circle 
books  are  bought  by  the  school  board  and  added  to  the  lists.  No  person 
is  entitled  to  the  use  of  more  than  one  volume  at  a  time,  nor  for  a  longer 
time  than  two  weeks,  except  by  returning  the  book  to  the  Library  and  re- 
newing same.  If  a  book  is  retained  longer  than  two  weeks  without  renew- 
ing, a  fine  of  five  cents  is  assessed  for  the  first  day  and  two  cents  for  each 
succeeding  day  until  said  book  is  returned  or  renewed.  There  are  635 
borrowers. 

The  Library  occupies  one  room  in  the  school  building.  This  is  neatly 
furnished  with  large  book  cases.  Although  the  room  is  not  as  large  as 
necessary  yet  all  are  looking  forward  to  the  time  when  everything  will 
be  fully  equipped  and  our  Library  will  equal  any  of  its  size  in  the   state. 

Two  days  of  each  week  are  set  apart  to  draw  books  and    any  citizen 

has  this  privilege.     Books  suitable  to   children  are  classified  according 

to  the  different  grades.    Two  persons   are  employed  in  the   Library. 

The  first  librarian  was   Lillie  May  Youse,   followed  by   Dale  Gusman, 

Lulu  Wert,  Ethel  Burnan  Smith,   William  Eiler,  Orville  Fisher  and  Lelia 

Brickley.    The  present  school  board  are  Messrs.  McGuffey,  Brickley  and 

Pynfold. 

Fern  Rarick. 


INDIANA  LIBRARIES  99 

MICHIGAN   CITY. 
Michigan  City  Public  Library. 

The  Michigan  City  Public  Library  had  its  origin  in  the  last  will  and 
testament  of  Mr.  George  Ames,  in  which  provision  was  made  for  the 
legacy  of  $5,000  as  a  fund  to  be  used  for  the  purchase  of  books  for  a 
a  public  library,  in  case  a  library  organization  should  exist  within -a  stated 
time.  The  needs  of  a  public  library  and  the  knowledge  of  Mr.  Ames* 
bequest  encouraged  the  members  of  a  literary  society,  known  as  the 
Fortnightly  Club,  to  secure  a  library.  A  committee  was  appointed  to 
look  into  the  provisions  of  the  will  and  to  report  a  plan  of  organization 
necessary  to  secure  the  benefits  of  the  bequest.  This  committee  submit- 
ted the  names  of  fifteen  prominent  men  and  women  of  the  city  who  con- 
sented to  form  the  board  of  incorporators  and  to  take  necessary  legal 
steps,  according  to  the  state  law  of  1881,  to  organize  a  public  library 
association.  The  committee  was  composed  of  the  following:  Mrs.  J. 
Grenville  Mott,  Mrs.  John  H.  Barker,  Mrs.  Fannie  E.  Orr,  Mrs.  William 
C.  Gordon,  Mrs.  Minnie  Leeds,  Miss  Mary  E.  Vandusen,  Miss  Angela 
Donnelly,  Mr.  Walter  Vail,  Mr.  N.  P.  Rogers,  Mr.  Samuel  E.  Miller, 
Mr.  Edward  Boyle,  Mr.  A.  R.  Colbom,  Mr.  Otto  Klopsch,  Mr.  Albert 
Knaak,  and  Mr.  J.  H.  Orr. 

The  next  step  in  the  development  was  the  offer,  by  Mr.  J.  H.  Bar- 
ker, of  a  contribution  of  one-third  of  the  entire  cost  of  a  library  building 
to  be  erected  by  means  of  the  subscriptions  of  the  citizens.  Such  an 
interest  had  been  aroused  that  the  committee  appointed  to  solicit  funds 
soon  raised  $30,000.  A  site  was  chosen  on  a  centrally  located  comer. 
Spring  and  Eigth  streets.  The  plans  for  the  structure  were  prepared  by 
Reed  &  Stem,  of  St.  Paul.  A  beautiful  building  two  stories  in  height 
was  erected  of  Indiana  blue  Bedford  stone.  The  architecture  is  classic 
in  style  and  the  interior  is  finished  in  marble  and  quarter  sawed  oak. 
Special  care  was  taken  in  fitting  the  building  throughout  with  the  best 
library  furniture  and  appliances,  and  in  arranging  everything  for  conven- 
ience in  use.  The  first  floor  has  the  reading  and  reference  room,  the 
children's  room,  the  delivery  room  and  the  stack  room.  On  the  second 
floor  are  the  trustees*  room,  the  art  room  and  the  assembly  room.  This 
last  named  is  used  by  some  of  the  literary  clubs  for  their  meetings.  The 
basement  is  finished  off  and  is  used  for  packing  and  store  rooms. 


100  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

Miss  Marilla  Freeman  organized  the  Library  in  1897,  and  was  librar- 
ian until  1902.  Miss  Grace  Edwards  then  took  the  position  for  one  year 
and  was  succeeded  by  Miss  Lillian  Arnold  who  is  the  present  librarian. 

The  Library  building  was  opened  to  the  public  in  October,  1897.  The 
Dewey  decimal  classification  is  used  and  the  public  has  free  access  to  the 
shelves.  During  the  winter  months  the  reading  room  is  open  from  8:30 
A.  M.  to  9  P.  M. ;  the  loan  department  from  9 :30  a.  m.  to  8  p.  m.  Dur- 
ing the  summer  the  reading  room  closes  at  8  P.  M.  Sundays  the  reading 
room  is  open  from  2  to  5  P.  M. 

At  present  there  are  7,627  volumes  in  the  Library,  619  volumes  hav- 
ing been  added  during  the  last  year.  A  large  per  cent  of  this  number 
was  donated;  however,  with  the  book  fund  that  has  recently  been  raised 
it  will  soon  be  possible  to  add  more  than  heretofore.  The  subscription 
list  for  periodicals  includes  thirty-seven  well  chosen  magazines.  The 
back  numbers  of  these  are  allowed  to  circulate.  Of  the  14,850  inhabit- 
ants of  Michigan  City  2, 199  borrowers  make  use  of  the  Library  privileges. 
The  circulation  of  books  averages  126  per  day.  The  circulation  for  1903 
reached  37,984  and  the  average  yearly  circulation  is  35,252. 

The  library  is  supported  by  a  township  tax  of  six  mills.  This  brings 
in  about  $2,400  yearly  and  is  used  for  the  current  expenses.  Besides  this 
the  income  from  the  following  funds  is  used  for  the  purchase  of  books : 
the  George  Ames  fund,  and  a  recent  endowment  fund  of  $12,000,  which  was 
raised  by  subscription,  and  a  gift  of  $5,000  from  Mr.  J.  H.  Barker.  Mrs. 
F.  C.  Austin  and  Mrs.  J.  H.  Barker  have  made  generous  donations  from 
time  to  time.  Last  year  the  expenditures  of  the  Library  amounted  to 
$4,682.05;  the  receipts  were  $5,081.24,  including  donations. 

A  German  collection  was  started  some  time  ago  and  now  numbers 
over  500  volumes.  This  part  of  the  Library  has  been  kept  up  almost 
entirely  by  subscription,  but  it  is  hoped  to  have  sometime  a  permanent 
German  book  fund. 

The  board  of  Trustees  is  made  up  of  fifteen  members  as  follows: 
A.  R.  Colborn,  president;  Mrs.  J.  H.  Barker,  vice  president;  Miss  Geneve 
DeWolfe,  secretary;  Walter  Vail,  treasurer;  J.  H.  Orr,  Mrs.  J.  G.  Mott, 
Mrs.  F.  E.  Orr,  H.  W.  Johnson,  J.  J.  Riley,  WiUiam  Blinks,  N.  P. 
Rogers,  Otto  Klopsch,  Mrs.  Minnie  Leeds,  J.  B.  Faulknor  and  R.  W. 
Street. 

The  present  Library  force  consists  of  the  librarian  and  one  assistant. 
They  are  both  at  the  Library  forty-five  hours  per  week  and  have  a  vaca- 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  101 

tion  of  one  month  during  the  summer.  An  apprentice  girl  gives  three 
hours  a  day  for  four  months  and  receives  instruction  during  that  time. 
The  janitor  takes  care  of  the  building  and  ground  throughout  the  year. 

The  library  is  in  close  touch  with  the  clubs  and  schools.  Literary 
clubs  send  in  their  programs  and  reference  lists  are  made  out  on  the 
different  subjects  taken  up  for  study  and  are  filed  for  use  at  the  library. 
Bulletins  and  posters  of  interesting  events  and  prominent  persons  are 
posted  from  time  to  time.  Quite  a  number  of  exhibits  such  as  the  poster 
show  and  Indian  exhibit  have  been  given  to  arouse  interest  in  Library 
affairs. 

The  work  with  the  schools  has  been  carried  on  quite  successfully. 
What  is  called  a  Library  Day  is  observed  for  the  classes  in  the  6th,  7th, 
and  8th  grades.  One  afternoon  a  month  each  class  comes  to  the  Library 
for  the  purpose  of  supplementing  their  school  work  with  outside  reading. 
The  teachers  send  in  lists  of  subjects  in  which  the  children  are  interested 
and  all  available  material  is  taken  upstairs  in  the  large  room  where  the 
classes  meet  undisturbed. 

A  Library  League  was  organized  last  year — the  membership  now 
reaches  413.  Different  sections  meet  each  week  for  a  story  hour  and  the 
time  is  spent  in  reading  and  telling  stories  to  arouse  interest  in  good 
books. 

The  great  good  a  well  equipped  library  can  do  for  the  public  has 
been  tested  and  not  found  wanting.  With  the  thorough  organization  of 
previous  years  and  the  means  it  now  has  of  becoming  a  center  for  edu- 
cational work  of  all  kinds  it  is  hoped  the  Michigan  City  Public  Library 
will  continue  to  hold  its  strong  place  in  the  life  of  the  community. 


102  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

MONTICELLO. 
MoNTiCELLO  Public  Library. 

In  the  early  part  of  the  year  1903  some  little  agitation  was  started 
in  the  town  of  Monticello,  with  reference  to  a  Public  Library. 

Professor  John  W.  Hamilton,  superintendent  of  the  public  schools, 
contributed  occasional  articles  to  the  different  newspapers  of  the  town 
setting  forth  its  need  and  urging  that  some  action  be  taken  in  the  matter. 

Assisted  by  the  ministers  of  the  churches  particularly  the  Rev. 
H.  G.  Rice,  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  Professor  Hamilton  succeeded 
in  interesting  the  business  men.  As  a  result  subscription  papers  were 
started  and  $416,  the  amount  required  by  law,  was  soon  subscribed. 

An  organization  was  formed  April  6,  1903,  under  the  law  of  March  4, 
1901,  with  the  following  persons  elected  to  serve  as  Board  of  Trustees : 
WilHam  H.  Hamelle,  president;  Mrs.  M.  T.  Didlake,  vice-president;  Mrs. 
Truman  F.  Palmer,  secretary;  Miss  Anna  Magee,  treasurer;  Professor 
John  W.  Hamilton,  and  Dr.  J.  D.  McCann. 

Under  the  directions  of  the  board  of  trustees  two  rooms  on  the 
ground  floor  of  the  Court  House  were  furnished  with  library  equipments 
and  the  citizens  invited  to  make  donations  of  books.  By  the  last  week 
in  June  over  800  books  had  been  donated. 

Miss  Nora  Gardner  had  been  elected  librarian  and  Miss  Katherine 
Fisher,  city  librarian  of  Attica,  Indiana,  was  employed  for  three  weeks 
to  assist  in  classifying  and  cataloguing  the  books,  the  Dewey  decimal 
classification  being  used. 

On  the  first  day  of  September,  1903,  the  library  was  opened  to  the 
pubHc  with  1,025  volumes.  Since  then  the  number  has  increased  to  1,500 
with  nine  current  magazines. 

The  library  is  open  from  1  p.  M  to  5  P.  M.,  of  each  day.  The  public 
has  access  to  the  shelves  and  the  number  of  books  circulated  per  day 
is  forty. 

But  one  librarian  is  employed  and  no  special  work  is  done  with  child- 
ren or  clubs. 

The  population  of  Monticello  is  2,700,  of  which  340  are  borrowers  of 
books  from  the  library.  A  tax  of  one  mill  is  levied  but  the  taxes  not 
being  available  until  April,  1904,  the  present  source  of  funds  is  from  club 
and  individual  donations.  Persons  living  outside  of  the  corporation  may 
have  borrowers'  privilege  by  paying  the  sum  of  two  dollars  per  year. 

So  far  the  Monticello  Public  Library  is  a  success  and  a  source  of 
culture  as  well  as  wholesome  recreation. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  103 

MOORES  HILL. 
The  Moores  Hill  College  Library. 

The  Moores  Hill  College  Library  was  organized  at  the  beginning  of 
the  school,  in  1856.  It  was  not  put  into  modem  working  order  until  ten 
years  ago.  Since  then  it  has  been  a  very  efficient  addition  to  the 
College.  The  Library  contains  5,000  bound  volumes  and  3,000  pamphlets. 
Donations  are  made  from  time  to  time  for  additions  to  the  Library. 
Fifty  magazines  and  papers  are  to  be  found  on  the  reading  tables.  It 
occupies  three  rooms  on  the  first  floor  of  the  main  building  covering  a 
space  of  1,000  square  feet.  The  Science  Library  occupies  a  separate 
room  in  the  Science  Hall. 

The  Library  is  open  from  8:30  to  11:30  a.  m..  and  from  1  to  3  P.  M., 
daily,  except  Saturdays  and  Sundays.  Every  student  in  the  college  has 
the  privilege  of  using  any  book,  magazine  or  paper  in  it,  and  may  borrow 
any  book,  except  reference  books,  for  a  period  of  two  weeks.  One 
Librarian  is  regularly  employed. 

Only  until  recent  years  has  a  Librarian  been  employed.  Mrs.  Laura 
McClure,  now  at  Starkville,  Colorado,  Miss  Clara  Bigney,  of  Moores 
Hill,  and  Mrs.  M.  Snyder,  of  Moores  Hill,  have  served  in  this  capacity. 
Mrs.  Snyder  is  the  present  librarian.  The  Library  is  in  ^  better  condi- 
tion today  than  at  any  time  in  its  history. 


MOUNT  VERNON. 
Alexandrian  Free  Public  Library. 

May  18,  1895,  the  following  persons  organized  the  Alexandrian 
Library  under  the  incorporation  act  of  April  7,  1881 :  A.  D.  Owen,  presi- 
dent; F.  S.  Monroe,  secretary;  E.  E.  Highman,  treasurer;  William  H. 
Fogas,  H.  P.  Leavenworth,  F.  P.  Leonard,  H.  C.  Tansey,  Matilda 
Alexander,  directors.  The  organization  grew  out  of  the  Alexandrian 
Literary  Club  which  was  organized  at  the  residence  of  Mrs.  Matilda 
Alexander,  804  Main  street.  Mount  Vernon,  Indiana,  October  11,  1892, 
looking  toward  the  establishing  of  a  library  in  the  future. 

The  Library  was  supported  by  annual  subscriptions  and  became  a 
prosperous  and  successful  corporation.  On  June  29,  1903,  the  Board  of 
Directors  tendered  the  library  and  its  endowment  of  $10,000  to  the  city; 
the  city  accepted,  and  it  became  the  Alexandrian  Free  Public  Library. 
The  endowment  above  referred  to  was  given  by  Mrs.  Matilda  Alexander 


104  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

as  a  memorial  to  her  daughter,  Mrs.  Rosamond  Alexander  Peckinpangh, 
and  is  known  as  the  Rosamond  Alexander  Fund  for  the  support  of  the 
Alexandrian  Free  Public  Library.  The  endowment  consists  of  money, 
pictures,  books  and  real  estate. 

The  Public  Library  Board,  appointed  under  act  of  1903,  are  E.  E. 
Highman,  president;  Manuel  Coonback,  vice-president;  Abigail  Smith, 
secretary;  Herdis  Clemens,  Esther  Hovey  Leonard,  E.  G.  Bauman, 
Matilda  Alexander,  directors.  The  city  has  accepted  Mr.  Andrew  Car- 
negie's gift  of  $12,500  and  will  erect  a  suitable  library  building  in  the 
near  future.  The  population  of  Mount  Vernon  is  6,000;  the  value  of 
taxables  is  $1,874,500,  tax  levy  six-tenths  mill  to  the  dollar,  and  the 
value  of  taxables  in  Black  township  is  $2,494,885;  tax  levy  two-tenths 
mill. 

The  Library  contains  10,004  volumes  and  receives  about  twenty-five 
periodicals.  The  number  of  readers  in  1903  was  eighty,  number  of  the 
books  read  being  3,042. 

The  books  are  housed  in  a  room  in  the  city  hall.  The  Library  is  open 
once  a  week,  on  Saturdays,  but  will  open  each  day  in  the  week  after 
May  1. 

The  Board  hopes  to  have  a  plain,  substantial  library  building,  Bed- 
ford stone  front.    The  site  is  on  Main  street,  centrally  located. 

Mrs.  Matilda  Alexander. 


MUNCIE. 
MuNciE  Public  Library. 

Probably  since  1853,  Muncie  has  had  some  sort  of  a  Public  Library. 
Under  a  law  passed  in  May  of  that  year,  a  County  Library  was  estab- 
lished and  kept  in  the  court  house,  some  one  of  the  county  officers  acting 
as  librarian.  This  library  was  maintained  by  reserving  ten  per  cent  of 
the  net  proceeds  of  the  sale  of  all  lots  within  the  town  of  Muncie. 

In  1865  a  law  went  into  effect  for  the  establishment  of  township 
libraries  and  under  this  law  the  county  library  was  enlarged  and  went 
into  the  custody  of  the  township  trustee. 

In  the  year  1868  Mr.  H.  C.  Marsh,  then  postmaster  of  Muncie, 
bought  books  for  a  "circulating  library",  and  as  the  people  had  lost 
interest  in  the  county  and  township  libraries,  Mr.  Marsh  procured  per- 
mission from  proper  authorities  to  put  the  remainder  of  these  books  with 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  105 

his  library,  and  loan  them  free  of  cost.  This  library  was  kept  in  the 
post  office.  To  Mr.  Marsh's  collection  was  added  what  remained  of  the 
Maclure  Workingmen's  Library,  and  these  became  the  nucleus  of  the 
Muncie  Public  Library,  which  exists  today  under  that  name. 

It  was  on  May  30,  1874,  that  the  citizens  of  Muncie  were  called 
together  in  a  mass  meeting  for  the  purpose  of  organizing  a  public  library. 
One  of  the  chief  persons  interested  in  this  movement  was  Mr.  Hamilton 
S.  McRse,  then  superintendent  of  the  Muncie  public  schools.  A  stock 
company  was  formed  and  shares  sold  for  two  dollars  each,  quite  an 
amount  of  stock  being  subscribed  on  this  first  evening.  On  June  18, 
following,  articles  of  incorporation  were  filed  in  the  office  of  the  recorder 
of  Delaware  county,  and  soon  thereafter  directors  were  chosen  by  the 
stockholders  to  further  plans  for  a  successful  public  library  for  the  city 
of  Muncie.  Mr.  Hamilton  S.  McRae  was  chosen  the  first  president;  Mr. 
John  W.  Ryan,  secretary,  and  Mr.  E.  B.  Bishop,  treasurer.  Through 
the  energy  and  perseverance  of  these  officers,  together  with  a  number 
of  other  public  spirited  citizens,  the  Muncie  Public  Library  was  estab- 
lished, in  1875,  in  a  room  of  the  city  building,  and  the  common  council  of 
the  city  of  Muncie  was  induced  at  various  times,  to  subscribe  stock  to 
the  amount  of  $3,500.  This  practically  put  the  library  under  the  control 
of  the  city.  About  $300  were  spent  in  furnishing  a  room,  and  the  circu- 
lating library  of  Mr.  H.  C.  Marsh  was  bought.  This  included  the  old 
county  and  township  books. 

Mrs.  Hattie  Patterson  was  chosen  librarian  at  a  salary  of  $250  per 
year,  with  the  privilege  of  selling  stationery  in  the  library  rooms.  Mrs. 
Patterson  served  as  Hbrarian  until  1881,  when  Mrs.  Caroline  Fleming 
was  chosen,  she  serving  in  that  capacity  until  1890,  when  Miss  Emma 
Sparr  filled  the  position  for  one  year.  In  January,  1891,  Miss  Katharine 
Wilson  was  elected  librarian  and  held  the  place  until  February,  1903, 
when  reorganization  of  the  library  took  place  under  the  present  law. 

During  all  these  years  the  library  was  supported  by  the  city,  some 
member  of  the  board  going  before  the  city  council  once  a  year,  stating 
the  needs  of  the  library  and  asking  for  an  appropriation  which  was 
usually  granted.  At  frequent  intervals  individuals  and  societies  have 
presented  books  and  money  to  the  library,  so  that  a  very  good  collection 
of  books,  covering  all  branches  of  literature,  could  be  found  in  the  old 
library,  which  numbered  about  13,000  volumes  at  the  time  of  reorganiza- 
tion in  1903. 


106  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

One  of  the  largest  gifts  by  any  citizen  of  Muncie  was  made  by  Mr, 
George  W.  Spilker,  who  gave  his  home  for  library  purposes.  This  resi- 
dence was  afterwards  sold  for  $6,000  and  this  amount  was  applied  toward 
present  grounds  and  building. 

It  was  on  February  21,  1901,  that  a  called  meeting  of  the  Library 
board  was  held  for  the  purpose  of  considering  the  advisability  of  asking 
Andrew  Carnegie  for  a  gift  to  the  city  of  Muncie  for  Library  purposes. 
All  the  members  of  the  board  were  present,  consisting  of  T.  F.  Rose, 
president;  Mrs.  Nellie  M.  Stouder,  secretary;  N.  F.  Ethell  treasurer; 
A.  W.  Brady,  J.  R.  Marsh  and  Mrs.  M.  C.  Claypool.  The  matter  was 
thoroughly  discussed  and  it  was  decided  to  ask  Mr.  Carnegie  for  the  sum 
of  $50,000. 

About  this  same  time  the  Commercial  club,  of  Muncie,  began  to 
agitate  the  question  and  so  the  library  board  turned  the  matter  over 
to  that  organization.  A  letter  was  written  by  Mr.  Hardin  Roads,  to  Mr. 
Carnegie  and  on  March  9,  1901,  the  reply  came  saying  he  would  be  glad  to 
give  $50,000  to  the  city  of  Muncie  for  a  library  building  on  the  usual 
terms.  This  proposition  was  accepted  by  the  city  council  on  March  25, 
1901,  and  a  committee  was  appointed  to  procure  a  suitable  site  for  build- 
ing. The  lot  was  procured  at  a  cost  of  $13,000  and  Wing  &  Mahurin, 
of  Fort  Wayne,  were  chosen  as  architects  for  the  new  building.  The 
contract  was  awarded  to  Morrow  &  Morrow,  of  Muncie,  and  in  June,  1902, 
the  foundation  was  laid  for  the  new  library  building,  which  was  completed 
and  dedicated  January  1,    1904,   with  appropriate  exercises. 

In  January,  1903,  the  library  was  reorganized  under  the  Mummert 
law  of  1901.  The  board  required  by  law  consisted  of  T.  F.  Rose,  Mrs. 
Nellie  M.  Stouder,  appointed  by  the  school  board;  L.  W.  Cates;  Miss 
Belle  Thomas,  appointed  by  the  city  council;  A.  L.  Johnson;  Miss  Nettie 
Wood,  and  C.  M.  Carter,  appointed  by  the  circuit  court  judge.  All  of 
these  were  new  members  of  the  board  excepting  Mr.  Rose  and  Mrs. 
Stouder,  both  of  whom  had  served  for  a  number  of  years  on  the  old 
board.  Officers  were  chosen  as  follows:  President,  T.  F.  Rose;  vice- 
president,  C.  M.  Carter;  secretary,  Nellie  M.  Stouder;  treasurer,  L.  W. 
Cates. 

In  accordance  with  an  amendment  made  by  the  legislature  in  1903, 
the  township  trustee,  J.  W.  Dragoo,  and  his  appointee,  G.  A.  Ball, 
became  members  of  the  board  in  May,  1903.  During  1903  Miss  Artena 
Chapin  served  as  librarian,    with  a  substitute,    the   library  being  open 


*  INDIANA  LIBRARIES  107 

every  day  except  Sundays,  from  9  A.  M.  to  12  M.,  1  p.  M.  to  6  P,  M.  and 
7  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  At  the  January,  1904,  meeting  Miss  Chapin  was 
again  made  librarian,  at  a  salary  of  $900,  and  Miss  Margaret  E,  Streeter 
was  appointed  assistant  at  a  salary  of  $480.  An  extra  assistant  was 
appointed  for  night  and  Sunday  work. 

Beginning  January,  1904,  the  library  is  open  continuously  from  9  A. 
M.  until  9  p.  M.  every  day  except  Sunday.  On  Sunday  the  reading  room 
only  is  open  from  2  P.  M.  to  5  P.  M. 

The  library  now  has  1,777  borrowers,  1,063  of  whom  were  added  dur- 
ing 1903.  The  book  committe  has  purchased  about  2,000  volumes  during 
the  year,  all  of  which,  except  about  200  are  non-fiction.  Late  books  of 
fiction  are  supplied  by  the  Bodley  Club  Library  which  furnishes  250  books 
continuously,   which  may  be  exchanged  as  often  as  desired. 

The  library  contained  on  January  1,  1904,  19,291  volumes,  and  during 
the  year  1903,  35,077  books  were  circulated,  an  average  of  118  per  day, 
which  has  been  greatly  increased  since  the  opening  of  the  new  building, 
January  1. 

The  population  of  Muncie,  according  to  the  U.  S.  census  of  1900,  is 
20,942,  but  the  city  directory  of  1903  gives  31,606.  All  persons  living  in 
Muncie  and  Center  township  may  have  the  privileges  of  the  Hbrary  and 
any  others  may  have  the  same  privileges  by  the  payment  of  two  dollars 
per  year. 

The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  classification  and 
there  is  a  card  catalogue  for  the  use  of  the  public.  The  public  also  has 
access  to  the  shelves,  which  permits  great  freedom  in  the  use  of  the 
books  and  is  increasing  the  circulation. 

The  children's  books  are  shelved  in  the  children's  room  separate 
from  the  rest  of  the  library,  and  it  is  hoped  that  in  the  near  future  bulle- 
tins may  be  prepared  on  special  subjects.  The  schools  and  clubs  are 
helped  in  every  way  possible,  the  schools,  by  asking  the  teachers  to  send 
in  lists  of  their  work,  and  the  clubs,  by  looking  up  references  in  advance 
for  the  members.  In  the  reading  room,  which  is  separate  from  the  rest 
of  the  library  may  be  found  eighty-six  magazines  and  twelve  news- 
papers which  are  subscribed  for  regularly. 

It  will  thus  be  seen  that  Muncie  is  now  equipped  with  a  library  and 
building  in  keeping  with  the  progressive  spirit  of  her  citizens,  and  that 
it  is  destined  to  be  one  of  the  great  factors  in  the  intellectual  and  moral 


108  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

development  of  the  whole  community,  truly  a  great  charitable  as  well  as 
educational  institution,  supplying  and  creating  those  forces  which  make 
for  better  living,  a  higher  civihzation  and  the  development  of  the  whole 
man. 

Mrs.  Nellie  M.  Stouder, 

Sec'y.  Library  Board. 


NEW  ALBANY. 
New  Albany  Public  Library. 

Among  the  many  good  things  to  be  seen  in  New  Albany  its  Public 
Library  is  considered  one  of  the  best. 

According  to  the  census  report  of  1900,  the  population  of  New 
Albany  is  20,628.  Out  of  thi«  number  there  are  eighteen  clubs  of  about 
300  members  who  read  and  demand  the  best  of  hterature.  The  library 
has  therefore  collected  in  the  last  eighteen  years  the  choicest  of  books. 
This  is  true  especially  in  regard  to  the  reference  department. 

The  New  Albany  Public  Library  was  organized  May  8,  1884,  and 
approved  by  an  act  of  the  legislature  March  5,  1883.  Since  then  about 
600  volumes  have  been  added  annually,  making  the  total  number 
at  the  present  time  10,800.  The  further  prospect  for  the  Library  is 
most  gratifying.  Recently  the  tax  levy  has  been  increased  from  three 
cents  to  five  cents,  which  will  better  the  library  conditions  considerably. 
Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie's  gift  of  $40,000  for  the  erection  of  the  beautiful 
structure  which  was  opened  March  2,  was  secured  through  the  solicita- 
tion of  the  school  board  of  the  city.  Mr.  Carnegie  made  his  gift  March 
14,  1902,  and  it  was  accepted  by  an  ordinance  of  the  city  council  April 
19,  1902. 

The  Dewey  classification  has  been  adopted  and  when  the  books  are 
moved  into  the  new  building,  which  is  especially  adapted  to  library 
work,  the  public  will  be  given  free  access  to  the  shelves.  The  child- 
ren's room  is  a  long  felt  want  and  will  greatly  aid  the  work  with  the 
public  schools.  The  Library  also  tries  to  keep  in  touch  with  the  club 
workers. 

The  general  reading  room  will  be  supplied  with  ample  material  for 
all  readers  and  it  is  the  intention  to  make  good  use  of  the  bulletin  board, 
as  this  has  grown  to  be  a  very  popular  feature. 

About  2,800  borrowers  are  registered,  of  which  number  150  are  non-res- 
idents. Comparing  the  population  of  the  city  (20,628)  and  the  last  annual 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  109 

report  of  a  total  circulation  of  48,625  books,  gives  a  circulation  of  over 
two  books  to  each  person  in  the  city. 

The  Library  is  open  every  day  (Sunday  excepted)  from  9  a.  m.,  until 
8:30  p.  M.,  and  closed  on  all  holidays,  giving  306  working  days,  or  a  daily 
circulation  of  157  books. 

For  a  number  of  years  the  Library  was  under  the  charge  of  one 
librarian,  but  recently  one  assistant  has  been  employed. 

The  Library  Board,  which  is  composed  of  the  following  members — 
Louis  Hartman,  president;  George  Borgerding,  treasurer;  William  Rady, 
secretary; — are  doing  a  great  deal  towards  the  advancement  of  the 
Library  and  deserve  special  credit  for  their  efforts  in  securing  a  new 
building.  Special  credit  is  also  due  C.  A.  Prosser,  superintendent 
of  the  public  schools,  for  his  initiative  in  the  matter. 

At  the  beginning  of  the  Hbrary  work  in  New  Albany,  Mr.  Butterfield 
was  first  elected  librarian,  then  followed  Mr.  Brown,  who  served  only 
a  short  time  and  was  succeeded  by  Mr.  James  Ashabranner,  who  served 
for  a  number  of  years.  Walter  G.  Harrison  was  elected  to  succeed  him 
September  1,  1896,  and  still  occupies  the  position. 

Walter  G.  Harrison,  Librarian. 


NEW  CASTLE. 
New  Castle  Public  Library. 

New  Castle  has  had  many  experiences  with  libraries  of  various 
kinds  from  the  circulating  one  of  a  few  books  to  the  larger  combination 
of  town  and  township  ownership,  and  while  all  were  of  vast  benefit  in 
their  scope  of  usefulness,  they  were  always  limited  by  an  inadequate 
or  uncertain  financial  support  and  one  by  one  dropped  out  of  use. 

Finally,  the  plan  of  levying  a  specific  tax  upon  property  was  sug- 
gested as  the  most  reliable  means  of  securing  support.  The  sentiment 
in  favor  of  the  movement  was  largely  brought  about  by  the  persistent 
efforts  of  several  of  the  clubs  of  the  town,  the  ladies'  clubs  being  espe- 
cially active  in  the  matter.  The  city  council  levied  a  tax  of  one-half 
mill  on  each  dollar  of  valuation  and  placed  the  Hbrary  matter  in  the 
hands  of  the  school  board.  This  was  in  1899,  and  the  school  trustees  at 
once  rented  a  two-story  brick  office  block,  with  two  rooms  below  and 
two  above,  and  set  about  securing  the  nucleus  of  a  library. 


no  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

The  superintendent  of  schools  was  selected  to  act  with  the  secretary 
of  the  school  board,  as  a  committee  to  select  and  purchase  books  and 
other  necessary  supplies.  This  committee  has  placed  a  large  number  of 
volumes  in  the  library  and  is  constantly  adding  material  of  this  kind, 
being  very  careful  in  the  selection.  The  reading  room  feature  is  also 
looked  after  carefully,  and  a  liberal  supply  of  current  literature  and 
newspapers  is  maintained.  The  library  now  has  over  3,000  volumes  and 
includes  fiction,  biography,  reference  works  and  a  variety  of  juvenile 
matter.  The  library  is  a  favorite  resort  for  the  children  especially. 
Club  women,  too,  find  it  a  great  convenience  in  securing  material  for 
their  work ;  ministers  and  teachers  patronize  it  well.  In  fact,  the  aim 
has  been  to  secure  patronage  for  the  library  by  adding  literature  suitable 
to  these  various  classes  of  persons.  Club  members,  ministers  and  teach- 
ers are  asked  to  aid  in  the  selection  of  books  and  their  interest  is  inten- 
sified in  that  way.  The  Library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.  until  12  M;  from 
1  P.  M.  to  5  P.  M.  and  from  7  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.,  and  is  almost  constantly 
patronized.  Several  hundred  books  are  in  circulation  all  the  time.  The 
Library  has  probably  1,500  borrowers  out  of  a  population  of  5,000  and  is 
regarded  as  one  of  the  best  institutions  of  the  town. 

Mrs.  L.  J.  Christner  occupied  the  position  of  librarian  from  its 
establishment  until  ill  health  caused  her  to  retire  from  active  work  in 
the  library,  since  which  time  her  daughter.  Miss  Lulu  Christner,  has 
filled  the  position.  Superintendent  J.  C.  Weir,  of  the  city  schools,  has 
taken  a  deep  interest  in  the  library  and  encourages  his  pupils  to  use  it  to 
every  possible  advantage  in  their  school  work  and  as  the  library  is  located 
across  the  street  from  the  high  school  building,  it  is  well  patronized  by 
the  pupils.  The  authorities  have  fond  hopes,  at  some  not  far  distant 
date,  of  owning  their  own  library  building. 

The  present  board  of  school  trustees  consists  of  D.  W.  Linsey,  presi- 
dent; Mark  0.  Waters,  secretary  and  0.  J.  Gronendyke,  treasurer. 

Mark  0.  Waters,  Secretary. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  111 

NEW  HARMONY. 
The  New  Harmony  Working  Men's  Institute  Library. 

This  Society  was  organized  by  William  Maclure,  a  gentleman  of 
wealth  and  scientific  attainments,  as  an  experiment  in  the  self -educa- 
tion of  working  men.  It  was  intended  to  be  a  model  for  others  that  he 
proposed  to  organize  throughout  the  United  States.  He  had  already 
made  generous  gifts  to  the  Academy  of  Natural  Sciences,  of  Philadel- 
phia,  of  which  he  was  president  for  twenty  years.  The  following  ex- 
tracts from  his  letters  to  his  agent  at  New  Harmony  will  explain  his 
object  in  forming  these  Institutes:— "Believing  the  working  classes  of 
your  town  are  as  well  informed  of  their  true  interests  in  being  instructed, 
or  rather  in  instructing  themselves  as  in  any  other  part  of  the  union,  I 
shall,  if  such  Association  be  formed  under  any  act  of  corporation,  or 
otherwise  to  perpetuate  the  property  for  the  desired  purposes,  endow  it 
with  a  house  and  lands,  and  other  necessaries  to  make  a  beginning. 
You  may  consult  with  some  of  the  best  informed  of  that  class  and  find 
out  their  opinions,  and  what  they  would  propose.  It  is  solely  meant  for 
self -instruction,  and  not  to  depend  on  any  learned  professor  or  superior, 
but  to  be  managed  to  the  interest  of  all.  I  shall  endeavor  to  form  as 
many  of  these  institutes  as  my  means  will  allow.  Therefore  I  should 
like  the  one  at  New  Harmony  to  be  a  model  for  others.  I  have  left  a 
fund  with  the  Academy  of  Sciences  in  Philadelphia  to  be  applied  to  the 
diffusion  of  useful  knowledge  after  my  death,  restricted  solely  to  those 
who  labor  with  their  hands.  But,  aware  how  such  trusts  have  heretofore 
been  misapplied,  I  am  determined  before  I  die  to  form  as  many  as  pos- 
sible of  these  clubs  and  endow  them  with  the  necessary  funds  that  they 
may  go  on  and  increase  in  utility.  Your  Society  may  have  the  use  of 
my  library  at  New  Harmony  consisting  of  2,000  volumes,  upon  the  con- 
dition that  all  reputable  citizens  of  the  town  be  allowed  the  use  of  it. 
Also  one  of  my  houses  as  near  the  center  of  the  town  as  may  be.  After 
the  Institute  has  secured  its  charter  we  shall  consider  what  other  prop- 
erty may  be  useful  or  necessary  to  the  fulfilling  the  objects  of  the 
society." 

Mr.  Maclure  left  the  city  of  Mexico  for  New  Harmony,  but  owing 
to  old  age  and  disease  he  was  unable  to  withstand  the  hardships  of  the 
journey.  Near  the  village  of  San  Angel,  Mexico,  his  strength  failed  and 
after  a  short  illness  he  died  on  the  March  27,  1840.     He  left  his   property 


112  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

to  trustees  who  were  to  appropriate  a  sum  not  exceeding  $500  to  any 
institute  or  club  of  working  men  in  the  United  States  that  could  give 
satisfactory  evidence  that  they  were  properly  organized,  and  had  a  read- 
ing room  and  a  library  of  one  hundred  volumes. 

Applications  flowed  in  from  several  states  wherever  the  terms  of 
the  bequest  were  known.  Owing  to  the  incapacity  of  the  principal  trus- 
tee, Mr.  Alexander  Maclure,  who  was  opposed  to  the  testator's  disposi- 
tion of  the  estate,  the  affairs  were  so  loosely  managed  that  a  large  portion 
of  it  was  wasted  and  lost.  Finally  the  courts  removed  him  and  appointed 
Alvin  P.  Hovey  administrator. 

Out  of  the  residue  160  institutes  complied  with  the  terms  of  the 
bequest,  each  receiving  the  sum  of  $500.  The  New  Harmony  Working- 
Mens'  Institute  received  as  its  portion  a  wing  of  the  old  German  church 
and  an  order  on  a  bankrupt  London  bookseller  for  $1,000  which  was  only 
partially  honored.  From  this  beginning  the  Library  has  grown  slowly 
but  surely.  In  the  year  1847  it  contained,  as  the  first  catalogue  shows, 
425  volumes.  In  the  year  1854,  a  member  died  leaving  $1,000  for  the 
purchase  of  books  "treating  of  science  and  fact." 

Another  Maclurean  Institute  was  organized  about  this  time,  which, 
after  two  or  three  years'  existence,  turned  its  books,  some  300  volumes, 
over  to  the  Working  Men's  Institute. 

In  the  year  1866,  one  of  the  old  township  school  libraries  established 
by  the  state  containing  600  volumes  was  included.  In  1870  the  Library 
was  recatalogued,  when  it  contained  4,200  volumes.  In  1874  the  agent 
of  the  Economy  Society  visited  New  Harmony,  purchased  the  old  Ger- 
man church  which  was  in  a  dilapidated  condition,  tore  it  down,  and  con- 
verted it  into  a  school  building  at  and  the  same  time  repaired  the  wing 
owned  by  the  Institute  at  an  expense  of  $2,000. 

About  1893  the  Society  sold  its  building,  and  with  the  assistance  of 
Dr.  Murphy,  an  old  member,  built  the  building  now  occupied.  Dr. 
Murphy  made  contributions  of  books  and  specimens  for  a  museum,  and 
filled  the  art  gallery  with  paintings  purchased  in  Italy.  In  1899  he  made 
a  further  donation  of  money  amounting  to  $45,000.  In  1900  the  gift  was 
increased  to  $76,000.  At  his  death  in  December,  1900,  the  sum  total  was 
increased  to  $155,000. 

The  present  estimated  wealth  of  the  society  is  above  $200,000.  The 
annual  income  is  about  $6,000.  For  the  purchase  of  books  and  period- 
icals, $2,000  are  set  apart;   $1,200  for  free  lectures;  $600  for   expense 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  113 

fund;  $600  for  insurance  and  repairs;   $700   for  floating  fund,    which  is 
used  to  fill  all  deficiencies  in  other  funds. 

The  number  of  members  is  limited  to  twenty-six.  The  official  board 
consists  of  three  trustees,  treasurer,  librarian,  secretary,  and  auditing 
committee.  Henry  Hansdon,  Homer  Lichtenberger  and  H.  P.  Owen,  are 
the  trustees,  C.  S.  Lichtenberger,  treasurer;  Arthur  Dransfield,  librarian, 
secretary  and  superintendent  of  the  building  and  grounds. 

The  Library  is  kept  open  seven  days  each  week,  also  Sunday  and 
Thursday  evenings  till  9  o'clock. 

The  Library  contains  nearly  17,000  volumes,  to  which  the  yearly 
additions  are  about  1,200.  There  are  forty-two  periodicals  on  the  list 
which  circulate  the  same  as  books.  We  offer  every  inducement  to  the 
teachers  and  pupils  of  the  public  schools  to  use  the  Library.  A  good 
selection  of  works  on  pedagogy,  for  the  teachers,  and  supplementary 
reading  for  the  grades  is  kept  up  to  date,  which  is  highly  appreciated 
and  well  used.  Each  summer  a  competent  teacher  is  employed,  and  a 
free  art  course  of  eight  weeks  is  held.  The  librarian  is  on  duty  at  all 
times,  his  assistant  twelve  hours  each  week.  Since  the  organization,  in 
1838,  those  holding  the  office  of  librarian  are:  Charles  H.  White,  James 
P.  Bennett,  John  C.  Wheatcroft,  Isabel  Miller  and  Arthur  Dransfield. 

Arthur  Dransfield,  Librarian. 


114  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

NOBLESVILLE. 

NOBLESVILLE    PUBLIC  LIBRARY. 

The  Noblesville  Public  Library  traces  its  origin  to  the  reading  room, 
established  in  1890,  and  maintained  by  the  business  men  of  the  city. 
This  room  was  originally  located  on  the  north  side  of  the  public  square 
in  rooms  donated  by  Mr.  A.  H.  Lacy  for  that  purpose.  Miss  Jennie  Lacy 
had  charge  of  the  room  for  about  one  year,  at  the  end  of  which  time  the 
Ladies'  Aid  Society  took  charge  and  through  the  efforts  of  Mrs.  N.  D. 
Levinson,  Mrs.  Susan  Moss  and  others  it  was  kept  in  existence 
though  suffering  for  lack  of  patronage.  Mrs.  Knight  was  appointed 
librarian  in  1891  and  was  succeeded  at  the  end  of  one  year  by  Miss  Linsay, 
who  served  until  her  death  in  1895.  On  October  28,  1895,  Mrs.  Finlay 
assumed  the  duties  of  librarian  and  served  until  1900.  In  1896  a  charter 
was  secured  and  the  reading  room  was  reorganized  under  the  name  of 
the  Library  Association.  In  the  latter  part  of  1900  the  school  trustees 
took  the  burden  off  the  hands  of  the  Aid  Society  and  the  library  was 
moved  to  its  present  quarters  in  the  new  High  School  building  where  a 
special  room  had  been  built  for  the  same,  and  in  September,  1900,  the  library 
was  opened  under  the  name  of  the  Noblesville  Public  Library,  with  Ray- 
mond Aldred  as  librarian,  which  position  he  held  for  one  year.  At  this 
time  the  Library  contained  about  1,000  volumes.  On  September  14, 1901, 
Miss  Ethel  Conner  succeeded  Mr.  Aldred  and  is  the  present  and  only 
librarian.  Since  1901  the  Library  has  been  increased  to  2,500  volumes. 
From  a  population  of  6,000,  the  Library  has  700  borrowers,  and  a  circu- 
lation of  7,500  volumes  per  year;  a  daily  average  of  twenty  volumes. 
The  books  are  loaned  exclusively  to  residents  of  Noblesville,  who  may 
call  for  them  from  Monday  to  Saturday  between  the  hours  of  8:30  a.  m. 
and  4:30  p.  m.  About  $700,  per  year  is  set  aside  for  the  maintenance  of 
the  library  from  which  sum  the  librarian's  salary  is  paid.  J.  W.  Smith, 
H.  D.  Gray  and  Dr  0.  B.  Pettijohn  constitute  the  present  board  of 
trustees. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  115 

NOTRE  DAME. 
Lemmonier  Library  of  the  University  of  Notre  Dame. 

Until  1873  there  was  no  general  library  at  the  university  for  the  use 
*  of  the  students,  although  the  various  societies  had  more  or  less  exten- 
sive collections  of  books  and  each  of  the  different  colleges  a  number  of 
technical  works.  In  that  year,  however,  the  president  of  the  university, 
Reverend  Lemmonier,  conceived  the  plan  of  uniting  all  of  the  smaller 
libraries  into  one  that  would  be  generally  and  easily  accessible.  This 
■  was  the  beginning  of  the  present  efficient  library. 

It  was  first  known  as  the  * 'College  Circulating  Library"  but  after 
the  death  of  the  Very  Reverend  Lemmonier,  in  1874,  its  name  was 
changed  at  the  request  of  the  students,  to  its  present  title.  In  its  earli- 
est days  a  specialty  was  made  of  the  English  classics  and  before  the  fire 
of  1879,  an  unusually  complete  collection  of  them  had  been  made. 

In  1879  the  Hbrary  numbered  10,000  volumes,  but  in  that  year  it  was 
almost  entirely  destroyed  by  the  great  fire  in  which  nearly  all  the  univer- 
sity buildings  were  consumed.  At  the  same  time  about  20,000  volumes 
belonging  to  the  Faculty  Library  were  burned.  In  some  respects  the 
loss  was  irreparable;  for  besides  many  rare  books,  a  number  of  auto- 
graphical  letters  and  ancient  manuscripts  were  lost  in  that  unfortunate 
disaster.  But  the  same  energy  and  zeal  that  made  possible  the  erection 
of  the  new  Notre  Dame  over  the  ashes  of  the  old  within  three  months, 
was  shown  in  the  founding  of  the  new  library.  The  Lemmonier  Library 
today  stands  as  a  splendid  evidence  of  deserving  success.  Until  several 
years  after  the  fire  the  only  means  at  the  Hbrarian's  disposal  for  obtain- 
ing books  were  the  donations  made  from  time  to  time  by  the  friends  of 
the  university. 

Prominent  among  those  who  have  enriched  the  library  by  bequests  of 
books,  money  and  manuscripts  are  Rev.  President  Sorin;  Napoleon  III.; 
Cardinal  Newman;  Cardinal  Barnabo;  Rev.  J.  A.  O'Connell;  Rev.  D.  E. 
Hudson;  Hon  W.  J.  Onahan;C.  L.  D.  ;Col.  Elmer  Otis;  General  Rosecrans; 
Mrs.  M.  Rhodius;  Archbishop  Selon;  John  Gilmary  Shea;  Messrs. 
E.  and  W.  Arnold,  of  Washington;  and  Reverend  Arthur  Hariland  and 
Reverend  Grogan,  both  of  Philadelphia. 

In  1894  the  Columbia  Library  of  3,200  Catholic  authors,  one  of  the 
features  of  the  World's  Fair  was  merged  into  the  college  library. 

Some  years  ago,   through  the  efforts  of  Rev.  President  Walsh,  an 


116  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

annuity  of  $500  was  secured  from  the  council  and  placed  at  the  disposal 
of  the  librarian  for  the  purchase  of  books.  With  the  impetus  thus 
given  it,  the  library  has  developed  with  gratifying  rapidity  under  the 
aid  given  by  Doctor  Morrissey,  who  succeeded  President  Walsh. 

The  library  building  is  gothic  is  design,  130x50  feet  and  40  feet  in 
in  height,  admirably  arranged  with  regard  to  the  light.  The  order  of 
shelving  is  such  that  every  book  is  within  reach  of  the  visitor  without 
the  use  of  a  ladder.  The  cases  are  built  against  the  wall  and  the  upper 
tiers  made  accessible  by  a  gallery  around  the  entire  library.  Tiers  of 
cross  sections  have  also  been  set  in  the  central  portion.  At  each  end  of 
the  room  is  an  alcove  containing  the  private  library  and  desk  of  the 
lamented  Prof.  J.  A.   Lyons  and  called  in  his  honor  the  Lyons  alcove. 

All  the  interior  wood  work  of  the  Library  Hall  is  of  polished  hard 
wood  beautifully  trimmed  with  black  walnut. 

The  hall  is  also  the  temporary  repository  for  some  splendid  his- 
torical collections  and  many  curios  of  various  kinds,  rare  manuscripts, 
books  of  vellum,  illuminated  by  the  patient  toil  of  monks  centuries  before 
the  invention  of  printing.  At  present  the  library  numbers  65, 000  volumes. 
During  twelve  hours  of  the  day  the  library  is  open  to  the  students.  The 
care  of  the  library  is  in  the  hands  of  a  director  and  three  assistant 
librarians. 

The  hall  is  so  elaborately  fitted  up  that  one  is  surprised  to  learn  that 
the  present  location  is  but  temporary,  yet  such  is  the  case,  as  it  is 
intended  in  the  near  feature  to  erect  an  elegant  building  to  be  used 
exclusively  for  library  purposes.  Such,  imperfect  as  it  is,  is  a  descrip- 
tion of  a  great  and  growing  factor  in  the  wondrous  development  of  the 
University  of  Notre  Dame. 

Joseph  T.  Lantry, 
Student. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  117 

ORLAND. 
Joyce  Public  Library, 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the   authorities  for 
historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure  any  information  concerning 
this  Library. 


PERU. 
Peru  Public  Library. 

In  the  year  1897,  under  the  direction  of  the  school  board  and  a  num- 
ber of  others,  —lovers  of  books  whose  names  may  be  forgotten,  but 
whose  work  will  go  on  forever — a  library  was  organized  in  the  city  of 
Peru.  After  the  common  struggle  attendant  upon  most  beginnings,  a 
few  books  and  a  small  room  for  their  keeping  were  secured. 

To  the  earnest,  continued  and  untiring  zeal  of  Miss  Martha  G.  Shirk, 
perhaps  more  than  to  any  other  one  person,  does  the  city  of  Peru  owe 
the  present  satisfactory  condition  of  its  library;  not  yet  seven  years  old. 
The  volumes  number  4,714,  the  current  magazines  thirty-one.  A  tax  of 
one  mill  on  the  dollar  is  allowed  the  city  Library,  giving  it  an  income  of 
about  twenty-seven  hundred  dollars  annually. 

The  Carnegie  gift  of  $25, 000  has  made  possible  a  good  substantial 
two  story  building,  the  abiding  place  of  books,  pictures  and  furniture 
belonging  to  the  city  Library.  An  average  of  seventy  books  are  taken 
from  this  building  daily  and  no  less  than  4,300  names  are  on  the  list  of 
borrowers.  People  living  out  of  town  are  allowed  the  use  of  books,  but 
a  small  fee  is  charged. 

From  8  A.  m.  to  9  P.  M.  of  each  week  day  and  for  three  hours  on 
Sunday  afternoons  this  Library  is  open  to  the  public.  Books  are  not 
exchanged  on  Sunday,  but  the  reading  rooms  are  at  the  command  of 
those  who  care  to  use  them. 

The  Dewey  classification  is  used  and  shelves  are  conveniently  ar- 
ranged that  all  who  care  to  may  handle  the  books  themselves. 

One  side  of  the  main  room  is  given  to  the  children.  Here  are  two 
large  tables;  one  of  little  more  than  kindergarten  height,  the  other 
higher,  each  easily  seating  a  dozen  children.  At  one  end  of  this  space 
are  no  less  than  1,000  books  on  shelves  that  are  convenient  for  the  child- 
ren.   Pictures  and  statuettes  add  to  the  beauty  of  the  place  and  on  a 


118  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

beam  that  crosses  the  ceiling  are  these  words :  '  'This  room  is  under  the 
protection  of  the  boys  and  girls  of  Peru." 

The  librarians  have  introduced  to  the  children  of  our  city  the  "story 
hour."  This  occurs  at  irregular  intervals  on  Saturday  afternoons. 
Various  friends  who  have  talent  in  the  story  telling  line  have  been  in- 
duced to  meet  the  children  either  on  the  lawn  in  front  of  the  building  or 
in  the  assembly  room  and  there  to  plant  seeds  in  the  minds  of  the  boys 
and  girls  that  will  grow  into  fruit  bearing  desire  for  the  study  of  books. 
The  large  attendance  of  these  children  proclaims  the  popularity  of  the 
story  hour. 

Much  time  and  strength  have  been  given  on  the  part  of  the  librarians 
to  the  pupils  of  the  pubHc  schools,  the  children  in  turn  learn  to  look  to 
the  Library  for  help  in  much  of  their  school  work. 

Teachers  and  Hterary  club  workers,  bible  school  students  and  mis- 
sionary societies  find  in  the  library  a  never  failing  source  of  supply  for 
information  wanted  in  their  various  departments  of  work. 

The  high  school  debating  class  depends  largely  upon  the  Library  for 
its  success.  The  study  room  of  the  Library  is  used  by  these  debaters 
more  than  by  any  other  class  of  readers.  In  this  room  is  a  book  case 
filled  with  reference  books  on  the  subject  being  considered,  and  changed 
as  the  subject  of  debate  changes.  On  the  walls  of  this  room  are  beauti- 
fully prepared  bulletins.  In  fact,  bulletin  work  is  used  throughout  the 
Library.  The  birthday  calendar  and  the  bird  calendar  in  the  children's 
room  and  the  current  events  bulletin  in  the  general  reading  room  are 
among  the  many  helpful  attractions  that  constantly  appeal  to  the  visitor. 

The  magazine  room  in  the  basement  is  no  unimportant  feature  of 
this  Library.  Here  a  large  collection  of  the  unbound  magazines  are  sys- 
tematically arranged  and  on  one  side  of  the  room  is  a  collection  of  dupli- 
cates awaiting  their  shipment  to  the  State  Library  clearing  house  for 
exchange. 

So  long  as  the  Peru  house  keeper,  who  harbors  the  desire  to  have 
more  space  in  her  home  for  new  magazines,  hears  the  continual  call  of 
the  librarian  for  old  magazines,  so  long  may  we  be  assured  that  this  col- 
lection, though  constantly  depleted,  will,  like  the  widow's  oil,  continue 
to  fill  the  given  space. 

There  are  three  regularly  employed  persons  now  in  the  Library — 
two  day  librarians,  whose  duties  are  from  9  A.  M.  to  6  P.  M.,  and  even- 
ing librarian  from  6  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  119 

Miss  Martha  G.  Shirk,  the  first  librarian,  had  at  times  during  her 
five  years  of  service,  as  her  assistants  Miss  Eleanor  Underwood,  now 
Mrs.  K.  E.  Kenny,  Miss  Myrtle  Elder  and  Miss  Gertrude  Thiebaud.  Miss 
Shirk  having  given  up  the  work,  the  force  now  stands  with  Miss 
Thiebaud  as  librarian  and  Miss  Elder  and  Miss  Miriam  Richer  assistants. 

The  present  trustees  are  Dr.  H.  P.  McDowell,  Mr.  W.  H.  Zimmer- 
man and  Mr.  J.  A.  Faust. 

Mrs.  E.  L.  Miller. 


PLAINFIELD 
Plainfield  Public  Library. 

The  Plainfield  Public  Library  is  a  partial  realization  of  the  dreams 
and  desires  of  some  of  the  women  of  Plainfield. 

Feeling  the  need  of  such  an  institution  in  the  town,  and  believing 
an  honest  effort  to  establish  such  a  means  of  directing  and  cultivating 
the  literary  tastes  of  the  young,  and  satisfying  the  demands  of  the  old 
would  be  rewarded  by  success,  the  Woman's  Reading  Club  of  Plainfield 
asked  the  local  W.  C.  T.  U.  and  the  Friday  Club  to  enter  into  an 
association  for  the  above  purpose.  A  corporation  was  formed  and  a 
board  of  trustees  appointed. 

With  the  above  organizations  as  charter  members  the  association 
membership  was  increased  by  adding  the  name  of  any  person  in  the 
township  who  gave  a  dollar  or  more  in  money  or  books.  Donations  in 
both  were  solicited  with  the  result  that  in  a  short  time  the  library 
opened  with  about  400  volumes  and  money  to  buy  more. 

The  opening  took  place  in  June,  1901,  and  work  began  in  a  front 
room  of  a  private  residence,  on  Main  street,  with  Mrs.  Ed.  Lawrence  as 
librarian.  She  served  until  the  fall  of  1903,  when  her  failing  health  com- 
pelled her  to  resign,  and  Miss  Melissa  Carter  was  elected  to  that  position. 
Miss  Mayme  Snipes  is  her  assistant,  and  serves  in  the  absence  of  the 
regular  librarian. 

The  Library  is  classified  according  to  the   Dewey  classification  and 

the  librarian  gives  thirty-six  hours   per  week   to  the  general  routine  of 

modem  library   work,    and  on   Sunday  afternoon  some  member  of  the 

association  has  charge  of  the  reading  room,  but  no  books  are  loaned. 

.   The  town,  which  is  not  incorporated,  has  a  population  of  about  1,200. 


120  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

Residents  of  the  town  and  township  have  access  to  the  shelves  and  473 
regular  borrowers  keep  about  3,250  volumes  in  circulation,  per  annum, 
with  an  average  of  eleven  per  day. 

The  needs  of  the  academy,  high  school,  public  school  and  clubs  of 
the  town  are  supplied,  and  juvenile  books  are  a  prominent  feature, 
although  no  other  special  work  in  this  line  and  no  bulletin  work  are  done. 

The  one  per  cent  tax  levy  of  the  township,  for  the  public  school 
libraries,  is  expended  for  that  purpose  and  kept  in  this  library.  This, 
together  with  the  funds  received  from  entertainments,  rummage  sales, 
public  and  private  donations  constitutes  the  source  of  funds. 

An  average  of  $425  has  been  expended  yearly  for  all  library  purposes, 
including  the  buying  of  an  average  of  250  volumes  per  annum,  to  which 
has  been  donated  an  average  of  100  volumes  per  annum. 

On  the  reading  tables  are  fourteen  magazines  and  five  weekly  news- 
papers which  are  much  used. 

The  present  board  of  trustees,  who  are  Dr.  J.  S.  Reagan,  Dr.  Amos 
Carter,  Mr.  J.  F.  Cox,  Mr.  B.  W.  Anderson,  Mrs.  T.  Hunt,  Mrs.  Taylor 
Reagan  and  Mrs.  W.  H.  Hiss,  feel  that  a  new  building  is  of  real 
necessity  for  the  accommodation  of  the  growing  library,  and  plans  are 
being  perfected  for  such  a  building,  which,  it  is  hoped,  may  be  built  and 
occupied  in  the  spring  of  1904. 

This  building  is  to  be  erected  by  private  donations  and  the  library  is 
expected  to  be  maintained  in  the  future  by  a  special  library  tax  of  the 
township. 

Mrs.  a.  E.  Hunt, 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  121 

PORTLAND. 
Carnegie  Free  Library. 

The  Public  Library  of  Portland,  Indiana,  was  established  in  January, 
1900.  A  meeting  was  held  at  the  court  house,  at  which  nine  directors 
were  appointed  and  resolutions  were  introduced  for  the  incorporation  of 
Portland  Library  Association.  Miss  Elma  Bolton  was  engaged  as 
librarian,  which  position  she  held  until  the  donation  was  received  from 
Carnegie,  when  Miss  Nellie  Stanley  was  engaged  to  take  charge  until  a 
trained  librarian  should  come  in  March,  1902,  to  reorganize  the  Library 
previous  to  moving  into  the  new  building. 

In  March,  1901,  Mr.  Carnegie's  offer  of  $15,000  for  the  erection  of  a 
new  building  was  accepted,  the  building  being  completed  and  dedicated 
September  10,  1902.  The  new  Library  building  contains  a  general  read- 
ing room,  children's  room,  reference  room,  librarian's  room  and  stack 
room,  with  a  basement  which  contains  work  room,  boiler  room  and  two 
other  rooms  which,  when  finished,  will  be  used  for  general  assemblies. 
The  building  is  heated  by  hot  water  and  lighted  by  electricity. 

The  Library  is  open  to  the  public  every  day  in  the  week,  but  no 
books  are  loaned  on  Sundays.  On  all  week  days,  except  Saturdays,  the 
Library  is  open  from  1 :30  p.  M.  to  9  P.  M. ;  on  Saturdays  from  9  A.  M.  to 
9  P.  M. ;  on  Sundays  the  reading  rooms  are  open  from  1  P.  M.  to  5  P.  M. 
The  Library  contains  about  1,800  volumes  classified  according  to  the 
Dewey  classification,  and  is  supplied  with  a  card  catalogue.  The  public 
has  access  to  the  shelves. 

Portland  has  a  population  of  about  5,000.  The  maintenance  fund  of 
the  Library  is  $1,500  annually,  and  about  500  volumes  are  added  each 
year.  The  Library  receives  thirty  periodicals  and  five  newspapers. 
Books  are  loaned  to  borrowers  outside  of  town,  but  all  guarantors'  cer- 
tificates must  be  signed  by  citizens  of  Portland.  At  present  789  borrow- 
ers are  registered,  the  total  circulation  for  the  year  1903  being  10,696, 
an  average  daily  circulation  of  thirty. 

The  children  have  been  successfully  reached  through  the  schools  and 
bulletin  work,  and  the  bulletins  have  been  equally  useful  in  attracting 
older  people  and  increasing  the  circulation  of  books  along  certain  lines  of 
literature. 

The  following  persons  constitute  the  present  board  of  trustees:  Dr. 
M.  T.  Jay,  president;  0.  S.    Whiteman,   W.  H.  Reed,    R.  H.    Hartford, 


122  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

POSEYVILLE. 
Public  Library  of  Poseyville. 

The  Public  Library  of  Poseyville,  was  established  in  1898,  the  books 
Which  numbered  at  that  time  about  400  volumes,  being  purchased  from 
the  funds  contributed  voluntarily  by  citizens  of  the  town  and  community. 
It  was  maintained  for  several  years  from  the  sale  of  memberships  and 
the  proceeds  of  local  entertainments.  Until  April,  1903,  it  occupied  two 
rooms  in  the  opera  house  building.  When  the  legislature  of  1901  passed 
the  present  law  relating  to  public  libraries,  those  interested  in  the  wel- 
fare of  the  Library  were  quick  to  see  the  advantages  accruing  under 
such  legislation  to  libraries  of  its  class  and  soon  took  steps  to  organize 
under  the  law. 

The  board  of  trustees  of  the  town  made  a  levy  of  four  cents  on  the 
hundred  dollars  for  library  purposes  which  at  the  present  time  provides 
about  $150  per  annum,  which  amount  is  sometimes  supplemented  by  the 
profits  resulting  from  a  lecture  course.  The  Library  board  as  first  organ- 
ized, and  at  present,  consists  of  John  B.  Davis,  Mrs.  V.  P.  Bozeman, 
Mrs.  Joseph  R.  Haines,  Mr.  William  D.  Brown,  James  S.  Jaques,  Geo. 
J.  Waters  and  Miss  Mary  Dean. 

Last  year  the  town  authorities  erected  a  new  town  building,  the 
upper  story  being  planned  particularly  for  the  use  of  the  Public  Library. 
Into  this  new  home  the  Library  was  moved  last  April,  and  Miss  Merica 
Hoagland,  library  organizer,  spent  some  days  in  systematizing  and  cata- 
loguing the  books  and  installing  the  first  librarian.  Miss  Ottie  Sands. 

At  present  eight  of  the  standard  periodicals  are  received  regularly. 
The  town  has  a  population  of  about  800,  and  the  Library  is  free  to  the 
inhabitants,  but  its  privileges  are  extended  to  residents  of  the  township 
Upon  the  payment  of  an  annual  membership  fee  of  $1.00.  The  Library 
is  open  Wednesday  from  7  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  and  Saturday  from  2  p.  M.  to  4 
p.  M.  and  from  7  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  The  present  librarian  is  Mr.  Roy  Stevens, 
and  his  last  report,  which  dates  from  May,  1903,  shows  the  Library  to  con- 
tain 785  volumes  and  that  during  the  eight  months— from  May  to  Janu- 
ary, 1904,  there  were  loaned  816  books  to  134  borrowers. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  12a 

RENSSEL^R. 

RENSSELiER    PUBLIC  LIBRARY. 

The  village  of  Rensselaer  was  platted,  facing  the  falls  of  the  Iro- 
quois, in  1838,  and  is  the  county  seat  of  Jasper  county.  It  was  incorpo- 
rated as  a  town  in  1858,  and  as  a  city  in  1896.  It  now  has  a  population 
of  2,800. 

The  Library  interests,  since  the  Maclure  distribution,  have  been 
growing  with  the  village,  town  and  city.  The  trustees  did  not  well  care 
for  the  books  until  1855.  Alfred  Thompson,  a  banker  who  was  chosen  as 
township  trustee,  at  his  ovni  expense  furnished  a  case  and  secured  quite 
a  circulation  for  the  books.  Afterwards,  Cyrus  W.  Henkle  became 
county  recorder  and  took  the  books  into  the  recorder's  office,  where  they 
remained  until  1868.  In  that  year  Simon  P.  Thompson,  as  school  exam- 
iner, took  up  a  voluntary  subscription  of  $300  which  added  new  books, 
and  the  Iroquois  Library  was  organized.  It  remained  in  his  law  office 
for  nearly  twenty  years.  The  public  school  began  a  series  of  entertain- 
ments in  1886,  which  in  three  years  purchased  the  Iroquois  Library  which 
became  a  nucleus  for  our  school  Library.  A  room  was  set  apart  and  by 
entertainments  and  a  tax  of  one-tenth  of  of  mill  on  the  dollar  new  books 
were  added  and  cared  for.  There  are  now  in  the  Library  about  2,000 
volumes  which  circulate  freely  through  the  medium  of  the  school  child- 
ren. The  school  officers  and  especially  our  present  superintendent,  W. 
H.  Sanders,  have  taken  pains  to  make  the  Library  useful  to  the  city. 

In  1899  there  was  organized  a  new  union  Library,  for  which  a  home 
was  furnished  in  the  new  court  house.  Stock  was  issued  in  shares  of 
five  dollars  each,  and  $800  was  subscribed.  The  organization  assumed  a 
county  feature  and  the  auditor,  clerk  and  recorder  were  made  ex-officio 
directors.  This  brought  to  the  shelves  the  county's  books,  secured  a 
home  and  an  annual  allowance  not  exceeding  $75. 

The  tov/nship  feature  made  the  trustee  a  member  of  the  book  com- 
mittee, brought  to  the  organization  the  township  books,  and,  since  1901, 
a  tax  of  one-fifth  of  a  mill  on  the  dollar  each  year. 

The  city  feature  brought  a  city  tax,  since  1900,  at  the  same  rate  as 
that  in  the  township.  The  organization  was  called  the  Jasper  Public 
Library.  There  are  six  directors,  two  of  whom  are  women,  two  mem- 
bers being  elected  each  year. 


124  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

The  present  elected  officers  are  Ora  T.  Ross,  Harrie  T.  McCoy,  Jud- 
son  J.  Hunt,  Jesse  E.  Wilson,  Lucius  Strong  and  Simon  P.  Thompson. 
The  first  librarian  was  Bertha  Parcels,  followed  by  the  present  Stella 
Parkison.  The  librarian  is  the  only  officer  who  receives  compensation. 
The  book  committee  consists  of  the  township  trustee,  Charles  M.  Blue; 
two  appointed  by  the  circuit  judge,  Maud  Spitler  and  Judson  J.  Hunt, 
and  directors  Ora  T.  Ross  and  Lucius  Strong.  The  librarian's  salary  is 
paid  from  the  entertainment  fund,  all  the  income  from  taxation  being 
expended  for  books. 

The  Library  and  reading  room  are  open  on  Saturday  from  2  p.  m.  to 
6  P.  M.  and  on  each  other  week  day  from  4  p.  m.  to  6  p.  m.  The  circula- 
tion is  about  3,000  per  year,  and  in  five  years  but  one  book  has  been  lost. 
The  number  of  volumes  in  the  Library  is  3,200,  about  400  being  added 
annually,  and  about  thirty  periodicals  are  received.  The  public  has  free 
access  to  the  shelves.    There  is  no  special  organized  work   for   children. 

On  April  13.  1903,  Andrew  Carnegie  offered  $10,000  to  erect  a  build- 
ing. An  organization  was  effected  under  the  act  of  1903.  The  school 
trustees  selected  as  members  of  the  board  W.  H.  Sanders,  and  George 
K.  Holligsworth;  the  circuit  judge  appointed  John  F.  McColly,  Mary 
Eger  and  Blanch  L.  Chapman,  while  the  city  council  designated  an  mem- 
bers Ora.  T.  Ross  and  Simon  P.  Thompson.  The  board  organized  and 
fixed  a  rate  of  taxation  at  one  mill  on  the  dollar.  Mr.  Carnegie's  gift 
has  been  accepted. 

The  building  has  been  planned  and  contract  let  for  construction.  C. 
P.  Weatherhogg,  of  Fort  Wayne,  is  the  architect. 

The  Jasper  Public  Library  was  assisted  by  the  G.  A.  R.,  D.  A.  R., 
the  L.  L.  C.  and  the  citizens  generally. 

All  Library  interests  will  be  united  in  the  new  building.  A  children's 
room  will  be  provided  in  the  new  building,  and  an  audience  room  suitable 
also  for  lessons  in  physical  cul|;ure. 

Stella  Parkison,  Librarian. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  125 

Hale  Bradt,  0.  A.  Adair,  Dr.  C.  W.  Mackey,  W.  H.  Hood,  G.  W.  Berg- 
man. The  librarian  is  Lena  M.  Randall,  who  has  served  since 
March,  1902. 


RICHMOND 
Earlham  College  Library, 

The  Earlham  College  Library,  Richmond,  Indiana,  occupies  rooms  on 
the  second  floor  of  Lindley  Hall,  which  is  a  substantial  three  story  brick 
and  stone  structure  of  modem  design,  with  a  frontage  of  174  feet  and  a 
depth  of  159  feet.  The  reading  room  is  a  large,  well  lighted  room  60x32.5 
feet,  with  alcove  annexed  18.3x14.2  feet,  and  a  stack  room  27.5x24  feet. 
A  large  room  64.8x20  feet,  on  the  third  floor  of  Lindley  Hall  is  well 
adapted  for  storage  purposes. 

The  Library  contains,  altogether,  over  10,000  volumes,  not  including 
a  large  collection  of  pamphlets  and  unbound  periodicals,  and  is  classified 
according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification,  and  the  card  catalogue 
includes  all  books  belonging  to  the  college  library,  the  libraries  of  the 
Ionian  and  Phoenix  Societies,  and  the  Department  libraries,  of  which 
there  are  seven— the  German  and  French  reference  Library,  aggregating 
over  600  volumes,  the  History  Club  Reference  Library  of  375  volumes, 
the  AngHcan  Library,  the  Geological,  Zoological  and  Botanical  Library 
of  350  volumes,  the  Biological  Reference  Library,  the  Chemical  Refer- 
ence Library,  and  a  well  equipped  reference  library  of  the  Biblical 
Department,  including  a  large  collection  of  Friends*  writings. 

In  addition  to  these  facihties  at  the  college,  the  college  participates 
in  the  free  use  of  all  the  enlarged  educational  resources  and  advantages 
of  the  Morrisson-Reeves  Library,  of  Richmond,  which  contains  over 
30,000  volumes,  and  which,  by  liberal  endownment,  is  assured  a  substan- 
tial growth. 

In  recent  years  the  college  has  been  adding  about  500  volumes  per 
year  to  the  library  and  fifty  periodicals  are  taken  regularly.  In  addition 
to  these  a  number  of  papers  and  magazines  are  regularly  furnished  to 
the  reading  room.  The  Library  is  open  six  days  of  the  week  during  the 
college  year,  and  is  in  charge  of  a  librarian  who  is  a  member  of  the 
college  faculty,  and  two  assistant  librarians,  one  of  whom  is  also  cata- 
loguer. Students  have  direct  access  to  all  books  and  periodicals. 
Instruction  in  the  use  of  the  Library,  explaining  the  nature  and  use  of 


126  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

the  card  catalogue,  the  classification  and  shelf  arrangement,  the  use  of 
reference  books,  indexes,  bibliographies  etc.,  is  given  by  the  librarian 
at  the  opening  of  each  term. 

At  present  the  Alumni  Association  of  the  college  is  raising  an 
Endowment  fund,  the  proceeds  of  which  are  to  be  devoted  to  the  purchase 
of  books  for  the  Library. 

While  the  Earlham  College  Library  had  its  beginning  with  the 
establishment  of  the  school  in  1847,  yet  its  early  growth  was  slow  and  it 
was  not  until  1872  that  the  regular  librarian  was  appointed  to  assume 
the  responsibihty  of  its  direction.  Since  that  time  the  following  persons 
have  served  in  that  capacity:  Calvin  W.  Pearson,  Ph.  D.,  1872-'74, 
1875-*76;  Anna  Miles,  1874-'75;  Lindley  H.  Johnson,  B.  S.,  1876-'77; 
LydiaN.  Bowerman,  A.  B.,  1877-'78;  BmmaR.  Clark,  1878-'79,  1880-'81; 
Clara  M.  Levering,  1880;  William  Earl  Morgan,  A.  B.,  1881-'82;  John 
R.  Sherrick,  Ph.  D.,  1882-'83,  1884-'85,  1887-'88;  Ira  I.  Cammack, 
1883-'84;  Lindley  D.  Clark,  1885-'86;  Elwood  D.  Allen,  1886-'87;  Mary 
E.  Harris,  1888-'97;  Charles  B.  Newby,  B.  S.,  1897-'98;  Harlow  Lindley, 
A.  M.,  1898 . 

The  increasing  use  made  of  the  Library  together  with  its  very  satis- 
factory growth  makes  it  only  a  question  of  time  when  a  library  building, 
equipped  especially  for  library  purposes,  will  be  essential  to  the  best 
interests  of  the  college. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  127 

RICHMOND. 
Morrisson-Reeves  Library. 

The  Morrisson-Reeves  Library  of  Richmond,  Wayne  County,  Indiana, 
is  one  of  the  oldest  libraries  in  the  state  and  is  of  the  number  erected 
and  supported  by  the  community  benefited. 

Robert  Morrisson  purchased  the  lot,  erected  the  original  library 
building,  bought  its  first  books  and  devised  the  whole  to  * 'Wayne  Town- 
ship, Wayne  County,  Indiana."  The  Morrisson  Library  was  opened  in 
1864.  In  1879,  by  an  act  of  the  legislature,  the  township  trustee  was 
authorized  to  levy  a  tax  for  the  purchase  of  books.  In  1883  a  special 
tax  was  levied  to  enlarge  the  original  building.  In  1892  Mrs.  Mark  E. 
Reeves  made  a  gift  of  $30,000.  The  building  was  enlarged  and 
beautified  and  a  reading-room  established.  Mr.  James  L.  Morrisson  at 
the  same  time  erected  a  bay  to  the  reading-room  at  the  cost  of  several 
thousand  dollars,  which  his  grandchildren  Mrs.  Atwater  and  James  W. 
Morrisson  have  embellished  with  a  Tiffany  window  of  beautiful  design. 
Since  1894  the  Library  has  been  known  as  the  Morrisson-Reeves  Library. 

The  number  of  books  has  grown  from  the  original  6, 000  to  30,000  now 
upon  the  shelves.  The  well  patronized  reading-room  is  furnished  with 
105  periodicals,  and  is  open  during  the  week  from  9  A.  M.  until  9  P.  M. 
Sundays  from  2  until  5  P.  M.  The  children  have  a  beautiful  well  lighted 
room  especially  devoted  to  them. 

In  addition  to  the  regular  librarian  there  are  three  assistants 
employed  the  entire  day,  while  three  others  come  for  a  portion  of 
the  time.  The  circulating  department  is  open  during  the  week  only, 
from  9  A.  M.  to  5  P.  M.  except  Saturday  when  it  remains  open  until 
8  P.  M. 

May  1.  1903,  there  were  about  7,500  borrowers,  near  one  third  of  the 
inhabitants  of  the  town.  To  these  were  issued  during  1903,  57,375  books 
an  average  of  over  183  books  a  day.  Something  over  $7, 000  was  expended 
in  1903  upon  the  Library,  coming  largely  from  a  tax  of  five  cents  on  the 
$100  levied  for  that  purpose. 

The  present  members  of  the  Library  board  are  Wilbum  K.  Bradbury, 
Mrs.  David  W.  Dennis,  Jesse  S.  Reeves,  with  Aaron  Conley,  township 
trustee,  of  the  Morrisson  Committee  and  Mrs.  Mark  E.  Reeves,  Mrs. 
Wm.  Dudley  Foulke  and  Mrs.  Harry  A.  Weist,  of  the  Reeves  Committee. 
Sarah  A.  Wrigley  held  the  position  of  librarian  from  1864  until  February, 
1903,  when  Ada  L.  Bernhardt  was  appointed  to  succeed  her. 


128  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

RISING  SUN. 
Mahlon  Brown  Library. 

The  Mahlon  Brown  Library,  of  the  public  schools  of  Rising  Sun, 
Indiana,  is  the  result  of  a  charitable  devise  in  the  will  of  Mahlon  Brown, 
deceased,  who  was  a  citizen  of  the  town  and  died  more  than  fifty  years 
ago.  The  application  of  the  fund  to  this  purpose  was  dependent  upon  a 
contingency  which  happened  only  a  few  years  ago,  and,  after  some  legal 
proceedings,  the  circuit  court  of  Ohio  county  held  that  the  fund,  amount- 
ing to  $1,776,  might  be  used  by  the  common  council  of  the  city  for  the 
establishment  of  a  Library  for  the  public  schools.  Joshua  M.  Spencer, 
then  mayor  of  the  city,  was  authorized  by  the  council  to  estabHsh  the 
Library  with  the  fund  thus  provided.  He  completed  the  work  last  Sep- 
tember, having  then  expended  the  entire  sum  left  by  the  will,  and  turned 
the  library  over  to  the  board  of  school  trustees  of  the  city.  Miss  Eliza- 
beth Marble  is  librarian.  To  a  limited  extent  others  than  pupils  of  the 
schools  may  have  use  of  the  Library  by  paying  therefor,  and  it  is  hoped 
that  it  will  be  enlarged  and  become  a  free  public  Library.  There  is  now 
no  fund  and  no  income.  The  circulation  is  about  one  hundred  books 
weekly. 

The  Library  occupies  a  room  in  the  public  school  building;  it  is  open 
for  reference  purposes  during  school  hours,  and  books  are  issued  on  two 
days  in  each  week.  Only  reference  books  are  on  open  shelves.  The 
Dewey  classification  is  used,  and  the  Cutter-Sanbom  author  numbers, 
also  a  card  catalogue.    The  Library  contains  1,338  volumes. 

The  population  of  Rising  Sun  by  the  last  census  was  1,548.  The  col- 
lection of  books  has  been  favorably  spoken  of  by  a  number  of  visitors 
familiar  with  library  matters,  and  the  president  of  one  of  the  Indiana 
colleges  who  recently  examined  it  pronounced  it  the  best  school  Library 
he  had  ever  seen  in  a  town  of  this  size. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  129 

ST.  MEINRAD. 

St.  Anselm's  Abbey  Library. 

A  Monastic  Library. 

Monastacism,  one  of  the  humble  fruits  and  leading  exponents  of  the 
Christian  religion,  has  ever  been  active  in  disseminating  the  naturally 
diffusive  civilizing  influence  of  Christianity.  Religious  orders,  there- 
fore, have  always  been  intimately  associated  with  education  and  accord- 
ingly, the  shelving  of  volumes  or  the  formation  of  libraries,  has  always 
been  a  task  of  special  monastic  pleasure.  From  the  time  prior  to  1440, 
when  the  laborious  process  of  the  mind  and  hand  with  pen  were  at  once 
the  compositor,  printer  and  press,  up  to  our  age  of  inventive  genius, 
when  the  convenience  of  modern  mechanism  has  bequeathed  to  us  a 
more  prolific  outfit  for  the  diffusion  of  literature,  the  monasteries  have 
not  relaxed  their  traditionally  inherited  love  for  erecting  and  equipping 
interesting  libraries;  so  that  it  may  truly  be  said,  the  founding  of  a 
monastery  implies  the  foundation  of  a  Library. 

A  few  Benedictine  fathers,  representatives  of  the  oldest  existing 
religious  society  (the  Benedictine  Order  being  organized  in  483)  in  1854 
immigrated  to  southern  Indiana  and  there,  in  Spencer  county,  founded  a 
Monastery  and  quite  ordinarily  in  conjunction  with  it  also  a  Library. 
During  this  interval  of  fifty  years  they  have  equipped  two  Hbraries. 
The  first  Library,  listed  at  about  12,000  volumes— a  very  valuable  adjunct 
to  both  the  institution  and  State— was  virtually  destroyed  by  fire  in  the 
year  1887.  Though  the  value  of  this  regretable  loss  has  not  been 
recovered,  yet,  in  face  of  the  handicap,  on  account  of  restoring  a 
totally  uninsured  loss  by  fire,  and  despite  the  consequent  tension  on  the 
resource  fund  of  the  Abbey,  it  has  since  1887,  been  replaced  by  a  second 
one,  which  has  simultaneously  been  redupHcating  itself  with  the  new  build- 
ings, and  is  gradually  assuming  interesting  proportions  so  that  now  St. 
Anselm's  Library  (as  yet  in  its  temporary  accommodations)  may  be 
quoted  at  about  18,000  volumes,  with  an  average  annual  increase  of 
about  200  volumes.  For  reasons  stated  above,  the  Abbey  is  necessitated 
to  limit  the  drain  of  its  funds;  the  annual  expenditures  for  the  Library 
being  now  about  $400. 

The  name  St.  Anselm's  Library  is  suggestive  of  the  prevading 
intellectual  tendency  of  this  institution— namely,  scholasticism:  this  lit- 
erary treasury  teems  with  scholastic  thought;  all  that  is  remotely  or 


130  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

proximately  subservient  to  scholasticism,  such  as,  bibliology,  patrology, 
ecclesiastical  history,  etc.,  stand  out  in  bold  relief.  Besides  history 
(general  and  particular)  and  Grecian,  Roman,  German,  English  and 
American  classical  literature  in  prose  and  poetry,  also  the  oratorical 
talents  of  all  ages  and  nationalities  command  significant  attention. 
Whilst  fiction,  in  its  comprehensive  range  as  a  special  modification  of 
literature,  is  of  secondary  importance,  yet,  as  a  literary  genius,  it  is 
worthily  represented  by  a  select  assortment  of  the  first  talents  from 
among  English,  American  and  German  novelists.  In  every  department 
and  section  the  intellectual  and  classical  are  clearly  in  evidence.  The 
aforesaid  easily  suggests  the  linguistic  character  of  this  institution.  As 
furnishing  the  more  matured  and  stable-genius  or  idiom,  to  formulate 
the  conservative  and  profound  scholastic  ideas,  naturally,  Latin  and 
German  predominate.  Latin,  having  ever  been  the  normal  medium  of 
scholastic  thought,  is  first  in  prominence:  the  German  language,  which 
also  quite  fluently  accommodates  itself  to  philosophic  thinking  is  next. 
According  to  their  ratio  of  prominence  we  may,  therefore,  tabulate  the 
following  position  of  the  language  as  representing  the  literature  of  this 
Library,  respectively;  Latin,  German,  English,  Itahan,  Greek,  French, 
Hebrew.  By  the  way  of  varieties,  in  the  line  of  ancient  literary  produc- 
tions, the  Library  thus  far,  has  in  its  possession  merely  a  few  codices 
which  date  from  1593.  A  vast  number  of  the  volumes  date  mostly  from 
the  seventeenth  and  eighteenth  centuries. 

The  system  of  classification,  based  on  the  exemplar  of  the  great 
Library  of  Muenich,  is  analytic,  and  so  logically  does  this  method 
systematize  the  literature  that  the  whole  Library  virtually  forms  one 
giant  Encyclopedia,  in  which,  accordingly  every  volume  has  its  stable  and 
naturally  allotted  position.  This  minutely  organized  and  detailed  classi- 
fication divides  the  library  into  the  two  possible  departments  of  the  super- 
natural and  natural  profane,  both  of  which  dissolves  into  generic  sections, 
of  which  the  first  department  comprises  thirteen,  the  second  ten  such  kin- 
dred sections;  these  sections  are  again  shelved  into  specific  divisions  and 
sud-divisions,  and,  if  necessary,  into  further  branches  of  analyses;  so 
that,  as  a  well-organized  book,  with  its  departments,  sections,  divisions 
and  sub-divisions  finally  coalesces  into  the  logically  well-knit  theme- 
connection  of  its  chapter,  paragraph,  and  sentence,  thus,  I  might  ven- 
ture to  say,  the  analysis  of  a  Library  under  the  perfect  manipulation  of 
this  system  finally  terminates  into  the  special  individual  divisions  of  the 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  131 

volumes  themselves.  Two  important  advantages  are  realized;  on  the 
one  hand,  it  affords  the  librarian  a  minutely  detailed  and  practical, 
systematical  guide  and  insight  into  his  entire  field  of  literature:  on  the 
other  hand,  any  one  stepping  into  such  a  classified  library,  can  enter  into 
the  volumes  of  a  huge  work  of  literature  and  there  obtain  a  panoramic 
view  or  synopsis  of  the  workings  of  universal  thought. 

With  the  Library  there  is  also  associated  a  book-bindery,  which 
attends  to  the  restoration  of  damaged  donated  volumes,  besides  attend- 
ing to  other  miscellaneous  repairs;  also  binding  the  volumes  of  some 
standard  magazines. 

The  beneficial  accommodations  of  this  Library  allow  a  general  and 
special  circulation  of  its  volumes.  Monastaries  are,  as  a  rule,  centres  of 
education.  St.  Meinrad's  Abbey  also  has  an  adjoining  college  and  semi- 
nary. The  primary  utility  of  this  Library  is,  therefore,  to  supply  the 
professors  with  an  abundance  of  literature  in  their  respective  capacities 
as  teachers.  The  students  are  not  restricted  by  any  special  limitations, 
the  Library  accommodates  itself  to  the  individual  wants  of  the  students; 
only  a  set  day  of  the  week  is  encouraged  for  convenience  sake. 

Whilst  any  honest  seeker  of  truth  or  culture,  who  presents  a  genuine 
confidential  guarantee  of  good  faith,  may  have  access  to  the  shelves  and 
use  of  their  volumes,  yet,  on  account  of  temporary  inconviences,  in  con- 
sequence of  limited  library  accommodations,  it  is  under  certain  restric- 
tions and  with  discrimination  that  the  public  is  permitted  an  entrance. 
Rev.  Francis  DeSales  Schoeppner,  0.  S.  B., 

Librarian. 


132  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

SALEM. 
Salem  Public  Library. 

Because  of  strong  religious  sentiment  and  of  powerful  educational 
institutions,  Salem,  in  pioneer  times,  earned  the  title  ''The  Athens  of 
the  West."  Students  flocked  here  from  almost  every  state  and  territory 
in  the  middle  west  and  the  south  to  attend  the  schools  conducted  by  John 
I.  Morrison  and  James  G.  May.  The  people  in  their  efforts  to  popularize 
education  induced  the  township  trustee  to  estabhsh  a  public  Library. 
Several  hundred  books  all  bound  in  leather  were  purchased  and  kept  in 
the  trustee's  office.  They  were  the  best  books  of  the  age  and  constituted 
a  splendid  working  library  for  the  students.  But  with  the  disappearance 
of  these  strong  private  schools,  the  library  passed  into  disuse. 

Less  than  two  years  ago  when  the  question  of  establishing  public 
libraries  was  being  agitated  throughout  this  nation,  the  question  was 
revived  in  the  Fortnightly  Club  as  to  what  had  become  of  this  historic 
trustees'  library.  After  concluding  that  it  would  be  a  worthy  enter- 
prise to  re-collect  those  old  books  of  their  fathers,  the  club  further 
resolved  to  feel  the  public  pulse  in  regard  to  establishing  a  free 
pubHc  library.  In  less  than  two  days  citizens  had  subscribed  almost 
$1,000  to  maintain  it.  The  petitioners  then  filed  their  subscription  list 
with  the  county  clerk  and  in  the  succeeding  term  of  court,  Judge  Bus- 
kirk  ordered  the  Salem  Public  Library  established  according  to  the  acts 
of  the  legislature  of  the  year  1901.  The  Hon.  John  Hay,  present  secre- 
tary of  state,  learning  that  a  petition  was  being  circulated  to  establish  a 
library  and  remembering  his  birthplace,  forwarded  a  check  for  $25. 

The  town  council  voted  a  tax  of  six-tenths  of  a  mill  on  each  dollar 
for  the  support  of  the  Library.  The  township  trustee  asked  the  town- 
ship board  to  vote  two-tenths  of  a  mill  on  each  dollar  in  order  that  the 
citizens  of  the  township  might  secure  the  advantages  of  the  Library. 
From  these  two  sources  an  annual  income  of  $1,300  is  secured.  More 
than  1,000  volumes  and  fifteen  current  magazines  have  been  placed  in 
the  Library.    From  300  to  500  volumes  will  be  added  annually. 

For  a  town  of  2,000  inhabitants  the  circulation  is  very  large.  There 
are  at  the  present  time  385  regular  borrowers.  The  Library  is  open  but 
three  week  days  and  the  average  circulation  per  day  is  sixty,  making  an 
annual  circulation  of  10,000.  The  room  now  used  for  Library  purposes 
is  in  the  Town  Hall.  The  room,  lighting,  and  heating  have  all  been 
donated  to  the  library  board. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  133 

The  board  secured  the  services  of  Miss  Jessie  Wilson  and  after  send- 
ing her  away  to  study  library  methods  and  conditions  installed  her  in 
charge  of  the  Library,  March  28,  1902.  She  introduced  the  Dewey 
classification,  gave  the  public  access  to  the  shelves,  made  a  study  of 
juvenile  literature  and  co-operated  with  the  school  authorities  in  their 
selection  of  collateral  reading  for  the  high  school  students  and  secured 
special  working  libraries  for  the  various  clubs  of  the  town  from  the 
Public  Library  Commission. 

The  members  of  the  present  Library  board  are  E.  M.  C.  Hobbs,  S. 
P.  Morris,  J.  W.  Spaulding,  E.  H.  Bristol,  Lotus  D.  Coffman,  Mrs.  W. 
J.  Perkhiser,  Mrs.  Harvey  Morris,  and  Miss  Maude  Wilson. 


SEYMOUR. 
Seymour  Public  Library. 

The  Seymour  Public  Library  located  at  Seymour,  Indiana,  was 
organized  in  1895.  Prof.  H.  H.  Montgomery,  now  superintendent  of 
the  Seymour  public  schools  was  prominent  in  its  organization. 

There  are  now  about  2,500  volumes,  about  one  hundred  being  added 
per  year.  The  Library  receives  eleven  current  magazines.  In  a  popu- 
lation of  6,500  there  is  a  circulation  of  about  4,800  volumes  per  annum, 
making  an  average  of  sixteen  per  day.  Persons  outside  of  town  may 
become  borrowers. 

The  Library  occupies  two  rooms  in  the  Masonic  Temple,  one  of 
which  is  a  reading  room.  The  Library  is  open  every  afternoon  and  three 
evenings  each  week.  The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  Dewey 
classification  and  the  public  has  access  to  the  shelves.  There  is  no  special 
work  done  with  children  or  with  clubs.  One  person  only  is  employed, 
and  is  given  no  vacation  period.  Miss  Eldith  Plumkin  was  the  first 
librarian,  followed  by  Miss  Lucy  Drake.  Miss  Pearl  Clark  is  the  present 
librarian. 

The  Board  of  Trustees  are:  Prof.  H.  H.  Montgomery,  C.  C.  Frey, 
Harry  Miller  and  William  Humes. 

Preparations  are  now  being  made  for  a  Carnegie  building. 


134  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

SHELBYVILLE. 
Carnegie  Public  Library. 

The  Carnegie  Public  Library,  of  Shelbyville,  was  organized  in  Nov- 
ember, 1997,  under  the  name  of  the  Shelbyville  Public  Library.  It  was 
under  the  management  of  the  school  board  of  the  city.  This  board  has 
power,  under  sections  4524  and  4525  of  the  revised  statutes,  to  establish 
and  maintain  a  free  public  library  in  connection  with  the  public  schools 
when  there  is  no  other  library  open  to  all  the  people.  It  also  has  the 
power  to  levy  a  tax  of  not  exceeding  one  mill  on  each  dollar  of  taxable 
property  assessed  for  taxation  in  the  city  each  year.  Seven-tenths  of  a 
mill  is  the  present  rate  of  our  tax  levy.  The  names  of  the  persons  prom- 
inent in  the  organization  of  the  library  are:  E.  K.  Adams,  John  C. 
Deprez  and  W.  E.  Blakely,  members  of  the  school  board,  and  J.  H.  Tom- 
lin,  superintendent  of  schools. 

The  idea  of  the  pubHc  Library  originated  in  the  minds  of  the  mem- 
bers of  the  school  board  when  they  were  building  the  high  school  build- 
ing in  1895,  they  at  that  time  making  provision  for  the  same  by  setting 
apart  two  small  rooms  for  Library  purposes. 

After  the  high  school  building  was  completed,  in  1896,  subscriptions 
of  money  and  books  amounting  to  something  over  $1,000  were  made  by 
the  citizens  of  Shelbyville,  a  small  tax  for  maintenance  was  levied  and 
the  Library  was  formally  opened  to  the  public  November  1, 1897. 

The  Library  opened  with  1,000  volumes  upon  its  shelves  and  the 
number  has  since  been  increased  to  over  6,000  volumes.  Miss  Ida  Lewis 
was  appointed  first  librarian  and  still  continues  in  that  capacity.  Miss 
May  Wood  has  recently  been  appointed  assistant  librarian. 

It  became  apparent  in  a  very  few  years  after  the  Library  had  been 
opened  that  its  quarters  in  the  high  school  building  were  inadequate  to 
its  growing  needs.  Accordingly  an  appeal  for  aid  was  made,  late  in 
1901,  to  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie,  whose  public  benefactions  are  well  known. 
On  January  2,  1902,  a  letter  from  Mr.  Carnegie's  secretary  announced 
a  gift  of  $15,000,  to  be  used  in  the  construction  of  a  library  building. 
This  gift  was  afterward  increased  to  $20,000.  The  donation  was  promptly 
accepted  by  the  city  council,  a  site  purchased  on  the  comer  of  Broadway 
and  Tomkins  streets,  and  an  annual  maintenance  fund  guaranteed. 
Architects  were  at  once  employed  to  prepare  plans  and  specifications 
and,  early  in  1902,  a  contract  was  let  for  the  constuction  of  the  building. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  135 

Work  was  begun  on  the  building  in  May  and  in  August  following,  the 
cornerstone  was  laid  with  appropriate  and  impressive  ceremonies  by  the 
Masonic  order  of  Shelbyville,  Rev.  Joshua  Stanfield,  grand  chaplain, 
delivering  the  principle  address  of  the  day. 

The  building  was  completed  and  occupied  in  June,  1903.  The  style 
of  architecture  is  Ionic.    The  material  is  Bedford  stone. 

The  building  is  well  constructed,  the  workmanship  being  of  the  best. 
The  interior  finish  is  quartered  oak  and  frescoed  walls  and  ceiling,  and 
is  in  itself  a  work  of  art.  The  furniture  and  fixtures  are  of  the  very 
best.  The  Library  adds  about  1,000  books  each  year  and  receives  thirty 
current  magazines.  The  total  expenditure  for  library  purposes  is  about 
$3,200  yearly. 

The  circulation  for  the  year  ending  in  June,  1903,  was  16,132  volumes, 
an  average  of  fifty-two  books  daily.  The  population  of  the  town  is 
about  8,000  and  the  number  of  borrowers  is  2,314,  the  circulation  being 
limited  to  the  people  of  the  city. 

The  Library  is  open  every  day  in  the  week  from  8  A.  M.  to  9  P.  M. 
except  from  5  P.  M.  to  7  P.  M.,  and  is  open  Sunday  from  2  P.  m.  to  5  P. 
M.  The  books  are  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classifica- 
tion, no  class  number  being  used  for  fiction.  The  public  has  access  to 
the  shelves  in  a  limited  way  only,  the  books  in  non-fiction  for  children 
being  placed  on  the  shelves  in  the  children's  room  for  them  to  use. 

Lists  of  books  are  published  upon  the  flag  days  celebrated  in  the 
schools  and  duplicate  sets  of  text-books  are  purchased  which  are  loaned 
to  the  teachers  and  sub-loaned  by  them  to  the  pupils  for  class  work. 
The  clubs  of  the  city  use  the  Library  extensively  for  material  for  their 
work,  some  of  them  submitting  to  the  librarian  lists  of  books  in  which 
they  have  found  subjects  of  interest  to  them;  she  suggesting  any  ad- 
ditional ones  that  she  thinks  may  be  helpful. 

The  librarian  and  one  assistant  are  employed  regularly,  forty-eight 
hours  weekly,  the  janitor  taking  the  work  on  Sunday.  The  librarian  and 
assistant  each  have  two  weeks  vacation  in  the  year.  The  present  board 
of  trustees  is  composed  of  W.  E.  Blakely,  Frank  Bass  and  Charles  Davis. 

An  unusual  condition  exists  in  this  Library  in  the  fact  that  the  juvenile 
circulation  far  exceeds  the  circulation  in  adult  fiction.  Before  moving 
to  the  new  building,  the  circulation  averaged  about  a  1,000  a  month, 
but  for  the  past  six  months  it  has  averaged  2,259  books  a  month. 

From  the  day  the  Library  opened  it  has  had  an  extensive  use  and  its 


136  INDIANA   UBRARIES 

circulation  and  usefulness  have  increased  from  year  to  year.  The  effect 
of  the  Library,  from  an  educational  standpoint,  cannot  be  estimated  in 
any  tangible  way,  but  the  recreation  and  diffusion  of  knowledge  thus 
made  possible  are  influences  that  must  always  stand  for  the  best  in  the 
life  of  a  community. 


SOUTH  BEND. 
Public  Library. 

The  Public  Library,  of  South  Bend,  Ind.,  was  established  in  1888, 
by  a  resolution  of  the  board  of  education  under  an  act  of  the  state  legis- 
lature passed  in  the  year  1883. 

The  first  move  in  this  direction,  however,  goes  back  to  1880,  when 
this  city,  in  conjunction  with  a  number  of  her  sister  cities,  sent  a  peti- 
tion to  the  legislature  requesting  authority  to  establish  a  free  public 
library. 

This  was  granted  in  1881  by  the  passage  of  an  act  authorizing  cities 
of  10,000  inhabitants  or  over  to  establish  such  a  library  through  their 
boards  of  education.  The  board  of  education  who  took  this  important 
step  was  composed  of  Dr.  C.  A.  Daugherty,  Mr.  B.  F.  Dunn  and  Mr. 
Joseph  E.  Williams,  and  though  established  by  resolution  of  the  board, 
the  Library  had  neither  books,  room  nor  money.  As  the  tax  levy  could 
not  be  made  available  until  the  following  year,  Mr.  James  Oliver,  the 
veteran  plow  manufacturer,  fitted  up  a  large  room  on  the  fourth  floor  of 
his  opera  house  and  loaned  the  money,  in  anticipation  of  the  tax  levy, 
necessary  to  purchase  the  first  installment  of  books  and  periodicals. 
The  Singer  M'f'g.  Co.,  through  Mr.  L.  Pine,  local  manager,  furnished 
the  chairs  and  the  Birdsell  M'f'g.  Co.  gave  a  large  globe  and  thus  through 
the  aid  of  friends  the  Library  started  with  something  over  1,000  books 
and  a  very  full  selection  of  periodicals. 

In  1895  the  Library  had  practically  outgrown  its  quarters  and  the 
board  of  education  bought  a  lot  on  the  corner  of  Main  and  Wayne  streets 
and  promptly  proceeded  to  erect  a  building  that  should  be  an  architec- 
tural monument  to  the  city  and  a  structure  that  would  anticipate  the 
needs  of  our  citizens  for  years  to  come. 

The  foundation  of  this  building  was  laid  in  June,  1895,  and  the  new 
Library  was  informally  opened  to  the  public  May  8,  1896.  The  building 
is  constructed  of  Portage  red  sandstone,  with  copper  roof,  and  red  oak 
for  its  woodwork.     It  has  steel  bookstacks   with  a   capacity   of  30,000 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  137 

volumes,  and  the  stack  room  is  so  constructed  as  to  admit  of  this  cap- 
acity being  increased  to  60,000.  In  round  numbers  it  may  be  said  that 
the  finished  and  furnished  building,  with  the  lot,  cost  $40,000. 

South  Bend  is  very  proud  of  the  fact  that  her  Public  Library  belongs 
absolutely  to  the  people  and  is  supported  solely  by  them,  the  tax  being 
two  and  one-fourth  cents  until  September,  1903,  when  it  was  raised  to 
three  cents  on  the  hundred  dollar  valuation. 

While  the  growth  of  the  Library  may  have  been  slower  than  some, 
owing  oftentimes  to  the  lack  of  funds,  it  is  firmly  established,  well  pat- 
ronized and  is  growing  every  day.  It  now  contains  11,500  volumes— a 
reference  Library  of  which  the  city  has  reason  to  be  proud.  There  are 
124  current  magazines  and  twenty-six  newspapers,  eight  of  which  are 
dailies.  For  the  year  1903  the  circulation  was  39,600  volumes,  an  aver- 
age of  3,300  a  month  and  825  a  week. 

The  Library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  six  days  in  the  week  and 
books  are  loaned  to  city  people  only,  although  this  year  the  borrowers* 
privilege  will  be  extended  to  those  of  suburban  towns  with  no  extra  tax 
for  same.  Among  the  features  which  will  be  introduced  as  soon  as  is 
possible,  is  opening  shelves  to  the  public  and  the  establishment  of  a 
childrens'  room  which  is  greatly  needed,  a  small  alcove  now  being  used, 
called  the  "children's  comer."  However,  open  shelves  are  in  use  in  this 
department  as  well  as  in  the  reference  room.  The  Library  is  classified 
under  the  Dewey  classification  and  has  a  complete  dictionary  catalogue. 

As  South  Bend  is  essentially  a  club  town  considerable  reference 
work  is  done  with  a  view  to  the  clubs  in  particular,  so  much  so  that  the 
monthly  record  of  books  used  from  stacks  in  the  Library  for  reference, 
outside  of  strictly  reference  books,  averages  3,000  a  month.  No  small 
amount  of  interest  is  shown  in  the  posters  we  use  illustrating  the  read- 
ing bulletins  hung  up  from  time  to  time.  These  posters  are  drawn  and 
painted  by  eighth  grade  pupils  and  of  course  interest  the  children  as 
well  as  the  adult  readers  in  the  books  so  illustrated.  Particular  atten- 
tion is  now  being  drawn  to  Japanese  affairs  and  those  books  dealing  with 
the  Louisiana  purchase,  with  which  has  been  combined  some  local  history 
showing  La  Salle's  landing  and  portage  which  is  very  close  to  what 
is  now  South  Bend. 

The  Library  staff  is  composed  of  two  only,  librarian  and  assistant, 
with  a  substitute  who  can  be  called  upon  in  emergencies,  —far  too  small 
a  force  for  the  amount  of  work  which  could  be  done   if  there  were  more 


138  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

help,  this  however  will  be  remedied  in  a  short  while,  and  there  will  then 
be  a  stated  vacation  period,  which  has  not  been  heretofore.  The  board 
of  education  in  control  of  Library  administration  is  composed  of  three 
members:  Francis  M.  Jackson,  president;  J.  B.  StoU,  secretary,  and 
G.  A.  Baker,  treasurer;  a  board  greatly  interested  in  everything  per- 
taining to  Library  work. 

Evelyn  C.  Humphreys  was  librarian  from  the  opening  of  the  Public 
Library  until  August,  1903,  when  the  assistant,  Virginia  Tutt,  was 
appointed  librarian  and  Serena  Schultze  made  assistant. 

The  influence  of  the  Library  has  been  very  marked.  Its  periodical 
tables  are  filled  day  and  evening  and  especially  upon  the  young  are  its 
silent  influences  at  work,  building  up  the  intelligence  and  the  character 
of  the  future  good  citizen. 


SPICELAND. 
Spiceland  Academy  Library. 

The  Spiceland  Academy  Library  of  Spiceland,  Indiana,  was  organized 
in  1868,  as  an  association  library,  the  first  officers  of  the  association 
being  W.  W.  Wilson,  president;  Albert  Newby,  treasurer,  and  Clarkson 
Charles,  secretary.  There  was  much  interest  in  the  new  Library  and 
many  prominent  men  were  influential  in  making  it  a  success.  D.  H. 
Stuart,  James  Cochran,  Jacob  Taylor,  J.  T.  Unthank,  J.  P.  Bogue,  J. 
W.  Griffin,  Elwood  Pleas  and  others  were  of  service.  The  Library  is 
now  under  the  control  of  the  board  of  trustees  of  Spiceland  Academy. 
It  numbers  about  3,000  volumes  and  new  books  are  being  added  every 
year  as  needed.  The  board  of  trustees  appropriates  whatever  money  is 
needed  to  buy  books  and  to  furnish  the  reading  room  with  the  best 
current  magazines. 

Spiceland  has  a  population  of  about  800  to  1,000,  but  the  Library  is 
freely  used  by  the  citizens  for  miles  around,  as  well  as  by  residents  of 
the  town. 

By  the  consent  of  the  stockholders,  the  source  of  income  being 
exhausted,  the  Library  was  transferred  by  the  association  to  the  board 
of  trustees  of  Spiceland  Academy.  It  now  occupies  one  of  the  rooms  of 
the  Academy  building.  The  librarian  is  appointed  annually  by  the  board 
of  trustees. 

Nearly  all  the  books  are  now  classified  according  to  the  Dewey  classi- 
fication; the  Library  contains  juvenile  books  and  reference  books  for 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  139 

clubs,  but  the  chief  aim  at  present  is  to  make  the  Library  respond  to 
the  demands  of  the  students  of  the  Academy.  The  Library  is  open  six 
days  in  the  week  through  ten  months  of  the  year. 

William  Dawson  was  the  first  librarian.  Mr.  E.  B.  Ratcliff  for 
thirty  years  has  taken  a  very  active  and  influential  part  in  managing  the 
Library.  He  is  at  present  the  president  of  the  Library  association.  Mr. 
Josiah  Unthank  is  treasurer  and  Mrs.  Mattie  E.  S.  Charles  is  secretary. 
Thus  the  old  association  is  still  in  influence  and  works  together  with  the 
board  of  trustees  of  the  Spiceland  Academy. 

The  present  board  of  trustees,  through  the  superintendent  of  the 
Academy,  Homer  H.  Cooper,  is  placing  the  Library  under  the 
Dewey  classification,  adding  new  books  and  bringing  the  Library  up  to 
date  as  an  excellent  reference  Library. 

Homer  H.  Cooper,  Librarian. 


SULLIVAN. 
Carnegie  Library. 

In  the  town  of  Sullivan,  with  a  population  of  5,000,  a  "Carnegie" 
Library  building  is  in  process  of  erection.  The  Library  was  organized 
under  the  library  law  enacted  in  1901. 

A  popular  subscription  was  raised,  after  which  the  town  council 
ordered  the  tax  levy.  A  site  was  secured  and  then  Mr.  Carnegie  was 
asked  for  a  donation  for  the  building,  which  was  readily  granted. 

The  * 'Woman's  Club"  of  Sullivan  began  the  agitation  of  this  move- 
ment which  has  resulted  in  securing  the  Library.  By  lecture  courses 
and  other  means  funds  were  obtained  toward  the  project.  Mrs. 
O.  B.  Harris,  Dr.  Anna  T.  Sheridan  and  Mrs.  G.  W.  Higbee  were  the 
prime  movers  and  promoters  in  securing  the  Library.  The  members  of 
the  Library  board  are  Mrs.  O.  B.  Harris,  president;  Mrs.  G.  W.  Higbee, 
secretary;  Mrs.  Ella  Chany,  vice-president  and  treasurer,  Dr.  Anna  T. 
Sheridan;  John  S.  Bays;  John  T.  Hays  and  T.  B.  Springer. 

The  Library  will  be  supported  by  an  annual  tax  levy  of  six-tenths  of 
a  mill  on  the  dollar,  based  on  the  amount  of  taxable  property  in 
the  town. 


140  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

TERRE  HAUTE. 
Indiana  State  Normal  School  Library. 

The  act  of  the  General  Assembly  which  created  the  State  Normal 
School  was  approved  December  20,  1865.  This  act  defined  the  object  of 
the  school  to  be  '  'the  preparation  of  teachers  for  teaching  in  the  com- 
mon schools  of  Indiana,"  provided  for  the  appointment  of  a  board  of 
trustees,  the  location  of  the  buildings,  the  organization  of  a  training 
school,  the  adoption  of  courses  of  study  and  created  the  Normal  School 
fund  for  the  maintenance  of  the  institution.  The  city  of  Terre  Haute 
by  offering  substantial  inducements  secured  the  institution,  and  it  was 
opened  for  work  January  6,  1870. 

The  beginning  of  a  Library  equipment  may  be  said  to  date  with  the 
opening  of  the  institution.  This  equipment  then  consisted  of  an  English 
dictionary,  together  with  a  few  text-books  contributed  by  some  enter- 
prising publishers.  The  need  for  more  books  for  reference  purposes 
was  soon  felt  and  gradually  provided.  Seven  years  later  President 
Jones  makes  the  statement  that  "There  are  good  reference  libraries  in 
the  school"  and  that  "To  know  how  to  use  books  is  an  important  part 
of  a  teacher's  education."  In  1885  the  general  Library  numbered  2,000 
volumes  and  through  the  munificence  of  Mr.  Chauncey  Rose,  a  pubHc- 
spirited  citizen  of  Terre  Haute,  this  number  was  rapidly  increased  to 
4,000  volumes. 

On  the  morning  of  the  9th  of  April,  1888,  the  building  of  the  State 
Normal  School  and  all  its  contents,  including  the  Library,  was  destroyed 
by  fire.  Notwithstanding  this  blow  the  school  resumed  its  work  in 
temporary  quarters  on  the  morning  after  the  fire  and  steps  were  soon 
taken  towards  the  rebuilding  of  the  institution  by  the  city  and  state. 
The  city  immediately  contributed  $50,000  and  the  state  afterwards 
appropriated  $100,000,  of  which  $15,000  was  devoted  to  Library  purposes. 
The  building  erected  was  in  every  way  superior  to  the  old  and  three  of 
the  largest  and  best  rooms  were  fitted  up  for  Library  use. 

Through  the  persistent  efforts  of  President  Parsons  and  the  friend- 
liness of  the  board  of  trustees  progress  was  now  rapid  and  steady,  eclips- 
ing in  the  development  of  the  Library  all  similar  institutions.  Hereto- 
fore the  duties  of  librarian  had  been  discharged  by  the  president's 
secretary,  who  was  also  clerk  and  registrar,  and  for  five  years,  1885-1890, 
Miss  Helen  Gilbert,  now  Mrs.  Robert  Gillum,  filled  this  difficult  position. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  141 

In  June,  1890,  Mr.  Arthur  Cunningham,  assistant  librarian  of  De  Pauw 
University,  was  appointed  to  the  distinct  position  of  Hbrarian  of  the 
State  Normal  School.  The  5,000  new  books  were  then  thoroughly  classed 
according  to  the  Dewey  classification  and  the  work  on  a  card  catalogue 
of  authors,  titles  and  subjects,  with  references  and  cross-references,  was 
begun.     Official  catalogues  were  also  started. 

Before  the  special  appropriation  of  the  state  legislature  was 
exhausted  a  regular  Library  fund  was  created  by  the  levying  of  a  fee  of 
$1.00  per  term  on  each  student  of  the  school,  which  fee  was  afterwards 
increased  to  $2.00.  This  fee,  which  is  the  only  general  one  charged  in 
the  school,  now  yields  an  income  of  $5,000  annually  and  is  used  for  books, 
periodicals,  binding  and  Library  supplies.  Salaries  are  paid,  according 
to  law  of  the  state,  out  of  the  tuition  fund. 

In  the  spring  of  1892  the  Library  was  made  a  department  of  instruc- 
tion and  the  position  of  Hbrarian  a  member  of  the  faculty.  It  was  justi- 
fied by  the  actual  importance  and  influence  of  the  Library  as  a  factor  in 
the  work  of  the  school.  While  the  precedent  had  been  established  in  the 
leading  universities  of  the  country.  This  was  the  first  action  of  the  kind 
in  the  state  of  Indiana  and  probably  no  other  normal  school  in  the  United 
States  had  given  heretofore  such  recognition  to  its  Library. 

The  Library  soon  outgrew  the  quarters  provided  for  it;  more  room 
became  a  necessity,  both  for  the  storage  of  books  and  for  the  accom- 
modation of  readers.  After  some  years  of  effort  on  the  part  of  the 
president  and  trustees  a  handsome  and  commodious  building  was  erected 
for  the  Library,  laboratories  and  gymnasia.  The  building  was  started 
in  the  summer  of  1893,  but  for  the  lack  of  a  suflScient  appropriation  it 
was  not  completed  until  two  years  later.  It  is  one  hundred  feet  square 
and  cost  approximately  $85,000.  The  structure  is  of  pressed  brick,  with 
stone  and  terra  cotta  trimmings,  conforming  in  general  style  of  architec- 
ture to  the  main  building,  which  is  late  renaissance.  Wide  corridors 
connect  the  two  buildings. 

The  main  floor  of  the  new  building  is  thoroughly  adapted  to  Library 
use.  Light,  heat,  ventilation,  beauty  and  economy  of  administration 
were  duly  considered  in  the  construction  of  these  quarters.  The  read- 
ing-room, wainscotted  and  corniced  in  white  oak  and  beautifully  frescoed, 
will  accommodate  comfortably  two  or  three  hundred  readers.  The 
stack-room  is  fitted  with  the  Green  patent  stack  and  has  a  capacity  of 
70,000  volumes.    The  floor  covering  of  both  the  reading  and  stack  rooms 


142  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

is  inlaid  linoleum,  which  is  easily  cleaned,  durable  and  comparatively 
noiseless.  The  cataloguing  and  administration  rooms  are  of  convenient 
size  and  well  located. 

The  Library  on  January  1,  1904,  contained  34,452  volumes,  widely 
distributed  as  to  subjects,  but  especially  strong  in  pedagogical  literature. 
Of  this  number  about  4,000  are  classed  as  juveniles,  to  which  the  chil- 
dren of  the  practice  school  have  access.  The  annual  accessions  since  the 
destruction  of  the  old  Library  fifteen  years  ago  have  averaged  approxi- 
mately 2,300  volumes.  Some  200  current  periodicals  in  English  and  for- 
eign languages  are  kept  on  file,  for  which  the  Library  expends  annually 
$500.  These  figures  show  it  to  be  the  largest  normal  school  library  and 
next  to  the  library  of  the  Bureau  of  Education  at  Washington  the 
largest  pedagogical  collection  in  America. 

The  ruling  principle  in  the  administration  of  the  Library  is  the  freest 
and  best  use  of  the  books  consistant  with  the  interest  of  all.  To  this 
end,  students,  as  well  as  professors  and  instructors,  have  complete 
access  to  the  shelves  throughout  the  day.  Books  may  be  temporarily 
used  in  the  stack-room,  where  there  is  a  long  consulting  counter  of  con- 
venient height,  or  be  taken  into  the  reading-room  without  the  formality 
of  charging.  Being  primarily  a  reference  rather  than  a  circulating 
Library,  all  books  for  which  there  is  any  special  demand  for  class  work 
are  not  allowed  to  be  taken  from  the  building  during  the  day,  but 
almost  any  book  may  be  drawn  for  the  night  at  the  close  of  the  after- 
noon session  of  the  school.  General  reading  books  may  be  drawn  for  a 
period  of  two  weeks  and  renewed  any  number  of  times,  so  long  as  there 
is  no  conflict  of  interests.  Each  student  is  regularly  allowed  to  draw  as 
many  as  four  books,  though  no  two  can  be  departmental  reference  books 
of  a  single  subject.  By  special  arrangement,  however,  a  large  number  of 
books  may  be  taken.  Teachers  are  not  limited  in  the  number  of  books 
and  are  asked  to  account  but  twice  a  year  for  books  drawn.  No  system 
of  fines  is  employed,  except  for  lost  books,  which  must  be  replaced  or 
cost  forfeited;  habitual  delinquency  and  carelessness  are  made  matters 
of  disclipine,  the  penalty  being  the  partial  or,  in  extreme  cases,  the  total 
suspension  of  library  privileges.  The  Library  is  open  on  school  days 
from  7:30  A.  M.  to  4:30  P.  M.,  except  the  noon  hour,  and  on  Saturdays 
from  9  to  12  A.  M. 

The  Library  is  a  busy  workshop  throughout  the  day.  Great  is  the 
supply  of  books,  the  demand  is  even  greater,  and  its  resources   are  sev- 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  143 

erely  taxed  in  the  third  term  of  the  school  year  when  the  number  of 
students  enrolled  runs  considerably  over  a  thousand.  In  addition  to 
students  and  teachers  of  the  normal  school  about  one  hundred  and  fifty 
children  of  the  practice  school  have  access  to  the  books.  Citizens  of  the 
town  are  also  allowed  reference  use  of  the  Library,  without  payment  of 
the  Library  fee,  a  privilege  appreciated  chiefly  by  the  teachers,  preach- 
ers and  club  members.  Books  are  not  taken  from  the  city,  except  by 
students  in  daily  attendance  who  live  on  the  interurban  lines. 

As  already  intimated,  no  record  is  kept  of  the  use  of  books  within 
the  Library.  The  largest  number  of  books  drawn  for  home  use  in  one 
year  was  64,477,  which  gives  an  average  of  300  volumes  approximately 
for  each  of  the  210  days  of  the  school  year.  The  use  of  books  within  the 
Library  is  several  times  this  number. 

At  the  beginning  of  each  term's  work  the  librarian  meets  all  the 
new  students  for  instruction  in  the  use  of  the  Library.  This  instruction 
takes  the  form  of  talks,  explaining  briefly:  (1)  the  nature  and  use  of  the 
card  catalogue,  the  classification  and  shelf-arrangement  of  the  books,  the 
rules  and  regulations ;  (2)  the  use  of  the  title-pages,  prefaces,  indexes, 
tables  of  contents,  etc. ;  (3)  the  scope  and  special  values  of  the  general 
reference  books.  Besides  instruction  of  this  kind  individual  assistance  is 
rendered.  The  Library  also  issues  a  small  *  'Circular  of  Information, ' ' 
which  has  been  found  helpful  in  bringing  about  an  intelligent,  systematic 
and  proper  use  of  the  books. 

Three  persons  are  constantly  employed  in  the  Library,  besides  the 
janitors  whose  services  are  shared  with  the  rest  of  the  school.  Mr. 
Arthur  Cunningham,  the  librarian,  was  graduated  with  Latin  honors 
from  De  Pauw  University  in  the  class  of  1887  and  three  years  later 
received  the  degree  of  A.  M.  He  served  as  assistant  librarian  under 
Dr.  Edwin  Post  from  1887  to  1890,  when  he  was  appointed  to  his  present 
position.  Misses  Anna  C.  Keating  and  Helen  G.  Layman,  the  assistants, 
are  graduates  of  the  Terre  Haute  High  School  and  pursued  courses  in 
the  Normal  School. 

To  Mr.  W.  W.  Parsons,  a  member  of  the  first  class  graduated  and 
president  of  the  institution  since  1885,  the  Library  owes  more  than  to 
any  other  individual.  The  present  members  of  the  board  of  trustees  are 
as  follows:  W.  H.  Armstrong,  president,  Indianapolis;  Joshua  Jump, 
secretary,  Terre  Haute;  J.  H.  Tomlin,  Shelbyville;  Fasset  A.  Cotton, 
Indianapolis;  B.  F.  Louthain,  Logansport. 


144  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

TERRE  HAUTE. 
The  Library  of  the  Rose  Polytechnic  Institute. 

The  Library  of  the  Rose  Polytechnic  Institute  was  founded  in  con* 
nection  with  the  college  of  that  name  in  the  year  of  1883,  by  a  board  of 
managers  which  were  selected  to  carry  out  the  organization  of  the 
institution.  The  board  of  managers  consisted  of  Josepheus  Collet, 
president;  Chas.  R.  Peddle,  M.  E.  vice-president;  Samuel  S.  Early, 
A.  M.  secretary:  Demas  Deming,  treasurer;  Firmin  Nippert,  Barnabas 
C.  Hobbs,  William  A.  Jones,  Ray  G.  Jenckes,  Gen.  Chas.  Cruft  and  Col. 
William  K.  Edwards  (who  died  before  the  object  of  organization  had 
been  fully  attained).  A  body  corporate  was  established,  in  conformity 
with  an  act  of  the  general  assembly  of  the  state  of  Indiana,  approved 
February  20,  1867,  and  the  amendments  thereto,  said  act  being  entitled: 
*'An  Act  Concerning  the  Organization  and  Perpetuity  of  Voluntary 
Associations, ' '  and  repealling  an  act  entitled,  *  *  An  Act  Concerning  the 
Organization  of  Voluntary  Associations,  and  repealing  former  laws  in 
reference  thereto, ' '  approved  February  12,  1855,  and  repealing  each  act 
repealed  by  said  act,  and  authorizing  gifts  and  devices  by  will  to  be  made 
to  any  corporation  or  purpose  contemplated  by  this  act." 

The  need  of  a  Library  was  one  of  the  first  matters  to  which  the 
board  of  managers  gave  their  attention  and  an  opportunity  for  the  pur- 
chase of  the  Library  of  the  late  Dr.  John  Bacon,  of  Harvard  College, 
was  accepted  by  the  board  and  a  most  admirable  nucleus  of  scientific 
books  was  added  to  the  resources  of  the  institution.  Large  additions  to 
the  Library  were  made  by  the  President  Charles  O.  Thompson  and  many 
books  were  presented  by  warm  friends  of  the  college,  so  that  when  the 
school  first  opened  in  1883,  no  less  than  5,000  volumes  were  on  the 
shelves,  ready  for  use. 

Since  that  time  the  growth  of  the  Library  has  been  rapid  and  satis- 
factory and  the  number  of  volumes  has  been  increased  to  10,351  and  over 
2000  pamphlets,  the  rate  of  increase  being  at  present  345  volumes  per 
year.  The  number  of  periodicals  received  is  now  sixty-five— forty-six 
American  and  nineteen  foreign.  These  magazines  are  nearly  all  scien- 
tific in  character,  there  being  only  two  or  three  exceptions. 

Our  Library  is  situated  on  the  first  floor  of  the  main  building  of  the 
Rose  Polytechnic  Institute  and  library  hours  during  term  are  from  9 
A.  M.  to  11  A.  M.  and  from  1  P.  M.  to  4.15  p.  m.  Students  have  free 
access  to  the  shelves  at  all  times.    The  Library  is  very  seldom  used  by 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  145 

townspeople  as  there  are  several  other  libraries  in  this  city  of  approxi- 
mately 50,000  inhabitants.  The  yearly  circulation  of  books  is  400  and  the 
number  of  borrowers  220.  The  annual  expenditure  for  the  Library  varies 
from  year  to  year,  but  $700  represents  the  average  sum  expended. 

The  present  trustees  or  board  of  managers  are:  Wm.  C.  Ball,  presi- 
dent; Preston  Hussey,  vice  president;  Geo.  M.  Crane,  secretary;  Demas 
Deming,  treasure,  Ray  G.  Jenckes,  Wm.  S.  Rea,  John  B.  Aikman,  H.  I. 
Miller,  Samuel  S.  Early,  Wm.  S.  Roney  and  two  alumni  members,  W. 
Arnold  Layman,  Fred  F.  Hildreth. 

A  list  of  the  librarians  from  the  opening  of  the  Library  down  to  the 
present  time  is  as  follows:  Clarence  A.  Waldo,  Wm.  H.  Kirchner,  R.  R. 
C.  Simon,  Arnold  Tschudy,  Albert  A.  Faurot,  Edmund  J.  Hirschler, 
Frederick  P.  Wadleigh,  and  the  assistant  librarians  have  been  Miss  Annie 
W.  Allen  and  Miss   Hanna  F.  Smith. 


TERRE  HAUTE. 
Terre  Haute  Public  Library. 

For  many  years  after  the  failure  of  the  movement  of  1853,  the  rec- 
ords are  silent  in  regard  to  the  establishment  of  a  public  Library  in  the 
city  of  Terre  Haute.  By  and  by,  a  spasmodic  effort  was  begun  by  a 
number  of  citizens  to  secure  a  small  circulation  Library  by  means  of 
annual  membership  fees  supplemented  by  the  donations  of  books.  This 
enterprise  lived  a  little  less  than  two  years. 

About  this  time  the  superintendent  of  public  schools  called  attention, 
in  his  report  of  1868,  to  the  necessity  of  such  an  institution  for  the 
advantage  and  convenience  of  the  pupils.  This  suggestion  was  repeated 
and  emphasized  in  his  report  for  the  next  year. 

Again,  in  1873,  the  superintendent  called  attention  to  the  question  in 
the  following  language: 

"The  time  has  almost  come  when  the  pubHc  schools  must  have  a 
Library  at  their  command.  So  many  attempts,  and  I  might  add,  as 
many  failures  thus  far,  have  been  made  in  this  direction  by  different 
parties,  that  it  seems  almost  useless  to  mention  the  subject  again.  But 
the  necessities  of  such  an  auxiliary  increase  with  each  year,  and  it  does 
appear  that  some  means  should  be  devised  to  secure  its  establishment. 
The  schools  have  no  Library.  Terre  Haute  has  nothing  worthy  of  the 
name.  Let  us  work  to  build  up  and  maintain  a  first-class  Library  for 
the  children  of  the  public  schools.  * ' 


146  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

A  little  later,  petitions  to  the  common  council  to  levy  a  small  tax  for 
the  support  of  a  Library  were  denied,  even  after  a  majority  of  the 
voters  of  the  corporation  had  decided  in  favor  of  the  undertaking. 

Some  time  during  the  year  1880,  a  private  Library  was  started,  which 
showed  a  good  degree  of  enthusiasm  and  vigor  for  a  season;  but,  in  course 
of  time,  the  leaders  were  quite  willing  to  close  out  their  books  and  fur- 
niture to  some  association  willing  to  assume  the  payment  of  their  indebt- 
edness. Almost  simultaneously  with  this  condition  of  aifairs  in  the 
**Terre  Haute  Library  Association,"  the  state  library  law  was  passed. 

Acting  under  the  authority  of  the  law,  our  trustees,  on  the  10th  of 
June,  1881,  levied  a  tax  of  two  cents  on  the  one  hundred  dollars  of  tax- 
able property.  This  levy  was  purposely  made  considerably  below  the 
legal  limit,  so  that  no  tax  payer  could  justly  complain  of  extravagance, 
or  feel  the  burden.  Nothing  further  of  importance  was  done  until  the 
20th  of  May,  1882,  when  the  trustees  purchased  the  furniture,  fixtures, 
and  books  to  the  amount  of  1,140  volumes  of  the  Terre  Haute  Library 
Association,  by  assuming  about  $70  of  indebtedness  of  the  Association, 
and  the  payment  of  a  nominal  price  of  one  dollar. 

The  Library  remained  in  the  same  building  on  Wabash  Avenue  until 
1896.  That  year  the  Universalist  church  was  purchased  by  the  board 
which  made  pleasant  and  commodious  quarters  for  a  few  years,  but 
these  quarters  are  now  out-grown.  In  the  year  1903  Mr.  Crawford  Fair- 
banks gave  $50,000  for  a  Library  building  in  memory  of  his  mother, 
which  will  probably  be  completed  within  a  year.  The  Library  will  be 
called  the  "Emaline  Fairbanks  Memorial  Library." 

The  Library  contains  20,000  volumes  and  adds  about  1,000  each  year. 
The  current  periodical  list  is  fifty  monthly  magazines,  forty-five  weeky 
and  daily  papers.  Yearly  expenditure  is  $4,300  derived  from  a  library 
tax  levy  of  three  mills  on  the  dollar.  The  circulation  in  1903  was  60,000 
with  about  6,000  borrowers.     By  the  last  census  the  population  is  40,000. 

There  are  four  persons  employed  in  the  Library:  librarian,  two 
assistants  and  janitor. 

The  Library  is  open  from  9  A.  M.  until  9  P.  M.  The  Dewey  dec- 
imal classification  is  used.  Open  shelves,  except  fiction.  For  want  of  a 
children's  room  or  sufficient  space  in  general  reading  room  we  have  been 
able  to  do  but  very  little  special  work  with  children.  Art  clubs  and 
other  study  clubs  make  constant  use  of  the  Library.     Teachers  and  stu- 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  147 

dents  of  the  school  visit  the  Library  for  aid  in  their  work  and  the  mem- 
bers of  the  staff  are  always  ready  to  assist  where  help  is  wanted. 

Mrs.  Lucy  C.  Wonner  was  the  first  librarian  and  held  the  position 
until  her  resignation  in  1894,  when  Miss  Leatha  M.  Paddock  was 
appointed  and  still  retains  the  position. 

Leatha  M.  Paddock,  Librarian. 


TIPTON. 
Tipton  Public  Library. 

Tipton  has  many  things  of  which  she  is  justly  proud.  Conspicuous 
among  these  is  her  Public  Library.  It  is  the  product  of  a  third  of  a 
century  of  growth  of  public  sentiment.  During  all  these  years,  at  inter- 
vals, this  sentiment  would  take  form  and  a  nucleus  for  a  public  library 
would  be  established.  Each  effort  proved  short  lived,  for  the  reason 
that  the  support  of  the  library  could  not  be  made  a  public  tax,  and  indi- 
vidual donations  could  not  support  it.  These  conditions  were  changed 
by  the  enactment  of  the  library  law  of  1901. 

The  Library  sentiment  had  been  stimulated  by  the  various  literary 
clubs  of  the  city.  On  March  11,  1901,  at  the  home  of  the  late  Miss  Ora 
Grishaw,  at  the  close  of  the  program  of  the  Literary  and  Suffrage  Club 
the  purpose  of  again  trying  to  establish  a  public  library  was  given  birth. 
The  suggestion  at  this  time  came  from  Mrs.  Sam  Matthews.  Her  sug- 
gestion, as  is  too  often  the  case  of  progressive  movements,  met  with 
discouragement,  and  the  history  of  the  former  failures  was  paraded 
before  her.  Notwithstanding  the  opposition,  however,  at  the  suggestion 
of  the  president,  a  committee  was  appointed  in  the  interest  of  a  pubhc 
library.  This  committee  represented  the  various  clubs  of  the  city,  and 
consisted  of  the  following  members:  Hon.  Dan  Waugh,  Mrs.  Zulu  Moore, 
Mr.  Nallie  Compton,  Mrs.  Annie  Gifford,  Mrs.  Sam  Matthews,  Lucy 
Elliott  and  M.  W.  Pershing.  Mrs.  Matthews  acted  promptly,  and  with 
the  assistance  of  Joe  Booth  and  Mrs.  Zulu  Moore  at  once  solicited  sub- 
scriptions for  the  required  fund  necessary  for  an  organization  under  the 
Law  of  1901.  The  Hon.  Dan  Waugh  performed  the  legal  services  of 
incorporating  the  association.  The  members  of  the  first  library  board 
under  this  organization  were  the  original  committee  appointed  to  repre- 
sent the  various  clubs  of  the  city.  The  officers  were:  Dan  Waugh,  presi- 
dent; Mrs.  Annie  Gifford,  vice-president;  Mrs.  Sam  Matthews,  secretary. 


148  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

The  city  council  at  once  granted  the  tax  of  five  cents  on  the  one 
hundred  dollars  for  the  support  of  the  Library.  Thus  was  perfected  an 
organization,  but  without  a  book  and  without  a  room.  The  county  com- 
missioners kindly  granted  the  board  the  free  use  of  a  room  in  the  third 
story  of  the  court  house.  A  few  inexpensive  shelves  were  procured,  but 
there  were  still  no  books.  The  board  decided  that  notwithstanding  the 
public  had  been  liberal  in  their  donations,  they  would  again  test  its  gen- 
erosity and  open  the  Library  with  a  book  shower.  This  appeal  was  not 
only  made  to  the  resident  citizens,  but  also  to  those  who  had  been  resi- 
dents of  our  city  and  in  whose  hearts  it  was  known  that  Tipton  held  a 
warm  place.  The  response  was  more  than  could  have  been  hoped  for. 
The  shelves  were  no  longer  empty,  but  were  filled  with  choice  books, 
the  free  will  offering  of  a  good  people. 

In  the  meantime  the  secretary  of  the  board,  Mrs.  Matthews,  had 
written  Mr.  Carnegie  soliciting  aid  in  the  construction  of  a  library  build- 
ing. On  March  14,  1902,  the  board  was  made  happy  by  receiving  a 
letter  from  Mr.  Carnegie  containing  the  good  news  that  he  would  be 
pleased  to  furnish  $10,000  for  the  construction  of  a  building,  The  details 
were  soon  arranged,  and  the  proposition  of  Mr.  Carnegie  accepted.  The 
building  committee  was  now  appointed  and  it  consisted  of  M.  W.  Per- 
shing, and  Mrs.  Sam  Matthews,  representing  the  library  board:  Mayor 
Young,  B.  F.  Vice  and  A.  H.  Pence,  representing  the  city  council.  A 
plat  of  ground  consisting  of  three  lots  located  on  the  south  east  comer  of 
the  public  square,  held  by  the  city  as  a  park,  was  selected  as  a  site  for 
the  new  building.  The  building  was  begun  in  the  summer  of  1902.  On 
the  15th  day  of  October,  the  same  year,  the  corner-stone  was  laid  by  the 
Masonic  lodge.  This  was  truly  a  gala  day  in  Tipton.  Perhaps  there 
never  was  a  local  event  in  the  history  of  Tipton  in  which  the  people  were 
so  intensely  interested.  Senator  G.  H.  Gifford  delivered  the  principle 
address.  As  a  part  of  the  ceremony  and  for  her  untiring  zeal  and  efforts 
to  establish  a  library  Mrs.  Sam  Matthews  was  asked  to  lay  the  first 
brick  in  the  new  building. 

The  Library  proper  has  grown  from  700  volumes  to  1,700  volumes, 
classified  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification.  It  is  proper  the 
fact  should  here  be  noted  that  Mrs.  Nannie  R.  Shirk,  in  memory  of  her 
late  husband,  Elbert  H.  Shirk,  and  in  testimony  of  his  love  of  books  and 
his  devotion  to  learning,  has  endowed  the  Library  with  a  permanent  fund 
of  $5,000.    These  results  have  not  been  reached  without  anxiety  and 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  149 

labor  on  the  part  of  the  board,  and  no  small  part  of  these  burdens  rested 
upon  the  secretary,  Mrs.  Matthews;  but  by  her  energy  and  tact  obstacles 
were  overcome.  Step  by  step  we  can  trace  the  growth  of  the  Tipton 
Public  Library,  from  the  hopes  and  efforts  of  years  gone  by  until  the 
culmination  of  the  present  movement.  The  Library  is  no  longer  a  con- 
ception, but  is  a  reality.  The  new  building,  modem  in  all  its  arrange- 
ments was  dedicated  November  24,  1903. 


UNION  CITY. 
Union  City  Public  Library, 

What  is  now  known  as  the  Union  City  Public  Library  had  its  incep- 
tion with  a  society  of  young  ladies  known  to  the  public  as  G.  G.  G. , 
commonly  designated  as  Three  G's.  This  is  a  society  of  young  unmarried 
ladies  and  was  organized  April  23,  1887,  its  object  being  to  cultivate  the 
social  amenities  and  the  performance  of  works  of  benevolence.  This 
society  maintained  lecture  courses,  gave  entertainments  and  resorted  to 
many  devices  to  raise  funds,  and,  having  the  respect  and  sympathy  of 
the  community,  it  was  liberally  patronized.  For  ten  years  its  surplus 
was  distributed  among  the  poor  of  the  city  in  the  way  of  clothing,  fuel, 
provisions,  and  nursing  for  the  sick.  With  the  advent  of  better  times, 
drafts  on  its  benificence  became  less  numerous  and  it  resolved  to  estab- 
lish a  foundation  fund  for  a  public  library. 

Its  efforts  in  this  direction  were  ably  seconded  by  the  Ticknor  Club, 
the  Wednesday  Club,  the  Twentieth  Century  Club,  the  Cecillian  Club 
and  other  literary  and  social  organizations  of  the  city.  The  movement 
still  lacked  organization  and  capable  leadership.  An  efficient  director 
was  found  in  Mr.  Linneaus  N.  Hines,  who  became  the  superintendent  of 
the  public  schools  of  the  city  in  1901-2,  and  at  once  became  interested  in 
the  scheme  to  procure  a  public  library.  Early  in  the  work  which  he 
undertook  with  vigor,  he  announced  a  "Book  Social"  to  be  held  in  the 
Methodist  church  lecture  room.  The  result  of  the  social  was  the  dona- 
tion of  nearly  350  books  ranging  from  juvenile  books  to  encyclopedias 
and  with  almost  no  dupHcates.  With  this  as  a  foundation,  Mr.  Hines 
organized  a  public  library  in  connection  with  the  public  schools,  he  him- 
self being  the  board  of  managers.  Miss  Weimer,  a  member  of  the  high 
school,  was  appointed  librarian  and  gave  an  hour  or  two  daily  to  the  care 
and  distribution  of  the  books.     Her  compensation  was  merely  nominal 


150  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

and  Mr.  Hines  was  paymaster.  The  school  trustees  provided  a  room  in 
the  high  school  building  for  the  use  of  this  Library. 

The  next  step  was  to  affect  an  organization  of  the  library  interests 
under  the  provisions  of  the  statute  of  1901.  Mr.  Hines  prepared  sub- 
scription lists  and  secured  the  necessary  subscriptions  as  the  foundation 
for  an  organization  as  provided  by  the  said  statute.  As  a  result  thereof, 
the  following  library  board  was  appointed:  By  the  judge  of  the  circuit 
court,  Mrs.  Caroline  Northlain  for  three  years,  C.  M.  Thompson  for  two 
years,  and  S.  R.  Bell,  for  one  year;  by  the  board  of  school  trustees,  Miss 
Susan  Hardy  and  George  P.  Kennedy,  each  for  two  years;  by  the  com- 
mon council  of  the  city,  Miss  Nellie  Smith  and  Dr.  Wm.  Commons  each 
for  one  year.  This  board  met  and  formally  organized  April  10,  1902,  by 
the  election  of  Hon.  S.  R.  Bell,  president;  Mrs.  Caroline  Northlain,  vice- 
president,  and  Cyrus  M.  Thompson,  secretary,  the  city  treasurer  being 
by  law  the  treasurer  of  the  board.  Those  members  whose  term  of  office 
expired  in  one  year  were  reappointed  and  the  present  board  is  as  above 
designated.  Mr.  Hines  not  being  eligible  to  a  position  on  the  board  has 
continued  to  act  with  the  board  in  an  advisory  capacity. 

The  board  procured  two  rooms  on  the  second  floor  of  the  Wallace 
building  situated  in  the  business  center  of  the  city  and  on  the  close  of 
the  school  year  of  1901-'02,  moved  the  books  heretofore  accumulated  in 
the  high  school  building  to  the  new  quarters  and  in  June,  1902,  installed 
Miss  Lizzie  Rubey  as  the  first  librarian.  Miss  Rubey  had  had  several 
years  experience  as  teacher  in  the  public  schools  of  the  city  and  was  a 
great  favorite  with  the  pupils.  That  the  Library  might  have  her  valu- 
able experience  at  its  very  inception,  the  board  of  school  trustees  granted 
her  a  year's  leave  of  absence  in  order  that  she  might  devote  the  time  to 
this  important  branch  of  general  education.  At  the  expiration  of  her 
term  of  service  with  the  Public  Library,  she  returned  to  the  schools  and 
Miss  Susan  Weimer,  who  looked  after  the  books  while  in  the  school 
building,  was  chosen  librarian  and  entered  upon  her  duties  in  June,  1903. 
Her  salary  for  the  first  year  was  fixed  at  $300.  In  order  to  better  qualify 
herself  for  the  work.  Miss  Weimer  attended  the  library  institute  held  at 
Winona  lake  during  the  summer  of  1903,  Miss  Rubey  kindly  attending 
to  the  duties  of  librarian  during  her  absence. 

The  Library  rooms  were  fitted  for  the  use  of  the  Library  and  fur- 
nished by  the  money  raised  by  the  Three  G's  as  heretofore  stated.    Since 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  151 

the  books  were  removed  to  the  down  town  room  350  volumes  have  been 
added  to  the  Library,  these  books  having  been  paid  for  by  the  money 
raised  or  contributed  by  the  Three  G's  and  other  literary  and  social  clubs 
of  the  city.  Other  books  and  magazines  have  been  donated  by  citizens 
until  there  is  now  in  the  Library  approximately  750  volumes  besides 
magazines. 

A  reading  room  which  is  provided  with  some  seven  of  the  leading 
magazines,  secured  by  the  efforts  of  the  said  clubs  and  by  donations 
from  citizens,  is  also  maintained  in  connection  with  the  Library.  The 
money  arising  from  the  subscription  lists  and  the  levy  of  five-tenths  of 
a  mill  have  been  used  in  paying  salaries,  rents,  light,  fuel  and  other  inci- 
dental expenses. 

The  population  served  by  the  Library  is  approximately  3,000  and 
769  certificates  entitling  the  holder  to  the  use  of  the  Library  have  been 
issued.  During  the  past  year  an  average  of  twenty-nine  books  have 
been  taken  out  each  day.  The  Library  is  open  daily,  except  Sunday  and 
holidays  from  1 :30  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  No  special  work  has  been  attempted, 
but  the  book  committee  has  had  in  view  the  formation  of  the  reading 
habit  among  the  school  children.  The  librarian  is  the  only  person  reg- 
ularly employed  about  the  Library. 

Permanent  quarters  for  the  Library  are  badly  needed.  The  city 
owns  four  lots,  centrally  situated,  forming  a  square  about  185  x  185  feet; 
these  lots  were  given  to  the  city  for  use  as  a  public  park  and  for  a 
library  building.  Early  in  December,  1903,  Mr.  Andrew  Carnegie  made 
a  proposition  to  furnish  $10, 000,  on  his  usual  conditions,  for  the  purpose 
of  erecting  a  public  Library  building  in  the  city.  At  the  last  meeting  of 
the  common  council  of  the  city  in  December,  1903,  the  proposition  of  Mr. 
Carnegie  was  accepted  and  a  building  committee  appointed.  The  city 
owning  such  a  beautiful  site  and  having  pledged  the  money  to  support 
the  Library,  there  is  no  reason  why  the  Union  City  Public  Library  should 
not  have  its  own  commodious  and  handsome  quarters  before  the  end  of 
the  year  1904. 


152  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

VALPARAISO. 
Valparaiso  College  Library. 

Valparaiso  college  was  established  in  the  year  1873  and  in  the  begin- 
ning a  small  Library  was  located  in  a  small  room  on  the  second  floor  of 
the  main  building.  The  institution  rapidly  outgrew  these  quarters  and, 
in  the  year  1881,  it  was  given  a  much  larger  room  on  the  first  floor  of  the 
main  college  building.  In  a  few  years  it  outgrew  this  room,  when  a 
larger  room  was  provided  for  it,  and  it  now  occupies  the  whole  of  the 
first  floor  in  one  of  the  wings  of  the  main  college  building  and  has  an 
area  of  3,500  square  feet.  It  is  simply  a  college  Library  and  is  especially 
for  the  use  of  the  students  of  Valparaiso  College.  Citizens  of  Valpar- 
aiso, however,  have  access  to  the  Library  for  the  purpose  of  study  dur- 
ing Library  hours,  but  do  not  participate  in  the  privilege  of  the  circulat- 
ing library,  excepting  the  teachers  of  the  public  schools  who  are  given 
this  latter  privilege. 

The  Library  now  has  about  10,000  bound  volumes  and  about  3,000 
unbound  pamphlets,  magazines,  reports,  etc.  It  is  open  every  day  in 
the  week,  except  Sunday,  from  7:30  A.  M.  to  12:00  M.  and  from  1:30  P. 
M.  to  5  P.  M.,  the  entire  year.  The  Library  was  established  by  the 
principals  of  the  school,  H.  B.  Brown  and  O.  P.  Kinsey.  Mr.  0.  P.  Kin- 
sey  is,  and  has  been  from  the  beginning,  librarian  in  chief,  and  Miss 
Ella  Porter,  acting  librarian  since  1881,  assisted  by  Miss  Delia  Monce. 

The  Library  is  a  depository  for  the  government  publications  for  this 
congressional  district  and  has  an  almost  complete  set  of  government  pub- 
lications since  the  government  began  to  send  them  out.  It  receives 
about  fifty  monthly  magazines,  six  daily  papers  and  ten  weekly 
papers.  The  total  expenses  of  the  Library  are  about  $1,500  per  year  and 
this  expense  is  met  from  the  general  income  of  the  college.  The  Library 
while  not  so  large  is  splendidly  selected  and  is  an  unusally  good  working 
library,  and,  excepting  the  government  reports,  all  the  books  and  pam- 
phlets have  been  purchased  and  are  consequently  modern  and  useful 
books.  It  is  highly  appreciated  and  extensively  used  by  the  students  of 
the  college. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  153 

VINCENNES. 
ViNCENNES  Public  Library. 

After  repeated  inquiries  directed  to  the  Library  authorities  at 
Vincennes,  we  have  been  unable  to  obtain  any  information  whatever 
concerning  their  present  condition  or  activities,  therefore  we  gather  up 
such  material  as  is  historically  recorded  in  sources  at  hand.  We  quote 
from  Mr.  J.  P.  Dunn's  World's  Fair  Monograph,  1893,  on  **The  Libraries 
of  Indiana. ' ' 

"The  first  public  Library  in  Indiana  was  established  at  Vincennes  in 
1807.  Vincennes  was  th^n  the  capitol  of  the  territory,  and  the  residence 
of  the  wealthiest  and  most  influential  men.  The  old  records  of  the  insti- 
tution, which  are  preserved  in  Vincennes  University,  show  that  most  of 
these  were  subscribers  to  the  Library,  together  with  several  of  the  more 
prominent  men  from  other  parts  of  the  territory.  The  librarian  was 
Peter  Jones,  then  auditor  of  the  territory,  a  trustee  of  the  university, 
and  further  known  to  fame  as  the  keeper  of  a  very  excellent  inn.  The 
enterprise  was  successful,  though  to  the  present  generation  it  might 
seem  to  have  moved  slowly.  In  March,  1808,  little  more  than  a  year 
after  starting,  it  advertised  the  possession  of  210  works,  many  of  which 
were  in  several  volumes.  They  were  well  selected,  and  formed,  for  that 
time,  quite  a  treasury  of  literature  for  a  frontier  town.  This  Library 
was  successfully  maintained  through  the  hard  years  of  our  territorial 
existence,  and  was  supplemented  by  other  aids  to  mental  culture,  such 
as  the  ** Vincennes  Society  for  the  Encouragement  of  Agriculture  and 
the  Useful  Arts,"  established  in  1810,  and  Mr.  Elihu  Stout's  reading 
room,  established  in  1814  to  supply  subscribers  with,  'periodicals,  pam- 
phlets, price  currents  and  newspapers'." 

Supplementing  Mr.  Dunn  we  quote  the   following  from  the  Western 
Sun  newspaper  published  at  Vincennes  March  23,  1808 : 
*  'Vincennes  Library. ' ' 

*  'The  public  are,  we  believe,  generally  acquainted  that  more  than 
a  year  since,  an  attempt  was  commenced  by  a  number  of  the  citizens  of 
Vincennes  and  its  vicinage,  to  establish  a  public  circulating  library  in 
the  Borough  of  Vincennes,  under  the   title  of  the    'Vincennes  Library.  * 

Considering  all  the  circumstances  of  difficulty  in  which  the  attempt 
was  made,  its  success  has  equalled  the  most  sanguine  expectations  of 
the  patrons.    Already  has  a  company  been  organized  under  the  name  of 


154  INDIANA  LIBRARIES 

The  Vincennes  Library  Company, '  which  has  obtained  an  act  of  the 
legislature  incorporating  it  under  that  name.  As  it  is  a  measure  of 
public  utility,  emanating  from  the  most  benevolent  and  patriotic  motives, 
it  is  hoped  it  will  meet  with  universal  encouragement  from  every  citizen 
in  its  neighborhood.  Though  its  beginning  be  small,  as  that  of  every 
establishment,  however  useful,  must  necessarily  be,  in  a  new  country, 
situated  as  ours,  it  will  grow  with  its  country's  growth,  increase  with 
its  strength,  and  become  in  due  time  a  copious  and  permanent  source  of 
improvement  and  information,  easily  accessible  to  everyone.  The  char- 
ter of  the  company  together  with  its  constitution,  bye  laws,  etc.,  are 
deposited  in  the  library  room.  Any  person  desirious  of  becoming  a  sub- 
scriber, can  have  the  opportunity  of  inspecting  them  by  application  to 
the  librarian,  Peter  Jones  Esqr.  The  board  of  directors  appointed  by 
the  company  to  transact  its  business  in  ordinary,  judge  it  their  duty  to 
offer  to  the  company,  and  their  fellow  citizens  in  general  an  exhibit  of 
the  present  state  of  the  library,  as  regards  the  number  of  books,  their 
names,  etc.,  now  belonging  to  it,  and  to  solicit  every  person  who  justly 
appreciates  the  advantages  of  reading,  and  who  have  not  yet  subscribed, 
to  apply  as  above,  to  make  himself  acquainted  with  the  nature  of  the 
institution,  its  rules,  and  everything  appertaining  thereto.  When  he  has 
so  done,  we  are  confident  he  will  feel  a  pure  pleasure  in  becoming  a  sub- 
scriber, and  thereby  contributing  to  its  infant  support:  for  he  will 
reflect  that  it  is  now  merely  in  the  bud,  yet  by  fostering  care  it  will  here- 
after blossom,  and  bring  forth  fruit,  the  pleasures  and  profits  of  which 
if  he  cannot  completely  enjoy  immediately,  will  be  a  most  valuable  legacy 
to  his  children  and  country. 
**A  list  of  the  books,  etc. : 

1  Leland's  Philip  of  Macedon. 

2  3    Robertson's  History  of  America. 

4  5    Maimbourgh's  History  of  Arianism. 

6  7    8    9    10    Dictionary  of  Arts  and  Sciences. 

11  12  13    Reid's  Essays. 

14  Atwood  on  Rectilinear  Motion. 

15  16    Gutherie's  Grammar. 
17  18    Blair's  Lectures. 

19  Vattel's  Law  of  Nations. 

20  21    Witherspoon's  Works. 
22  23    Miller's  Retrospect. 
24  25    Morse's  Geography. 

26    27    Pinckerton's  Geography  with  Maps. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  155 

28  29    30    31    32    33    34    35    World  Displayed. 

36  37    38    39    40    41    World  Displayed. 

42  French  Revolution. 

43  44    45    Robertson's  Charles  V. 

46  Jefferson's  Notes  on  Virginia  with  Appendix. 

47  Ossian's  Poems. 

48  Andrews  View. 

49  Catteau's  Sweden. 

50  M'Kenzie's  Voyages. 

51  52    Politicks  for  the  People.  > 
53  54    Julian's  Works. 

55  Miscellanies. 

56  Hume's  Dialogues. 

57  Humphrey's  Works. 

68  Spurrier's  Practical  Farmer. 

59  Philosophic  Essays. 

60  Annual  Register. 

61  62    Washington's  Letters. 

63  64    65    Hooper's  Universal  Erudition. 

6Q  Essays  on  the  Passions  and  Affections. 

67  68    69    70    Goldsmith's  Animated  Nature. 

71  72    Var low's  Husbandry. 

73  Priestly's  Lectures. 

74  Ladies'  Companion. 

75  Tucker  on  Slavery. 

76  77    78    79    Eloisa. 

80  Beauties  of  Hurvey. 

81  Hurvey 's  Meditations. 

82  83    Mirabeau's  Gallery  of  Portraits. 
84  85    86    87    Thompson's  Works. 

88  Thompson's  Seasons. 

89  90    91    Confession  of  Faith. 

92  93    94    Smith's  Wealth  of  Nations. 

95  96    97    98    Chesterfield's  Letters. 

99  Vattaires  Philosophical  Dictionary. 

100  Dr.  Derham's  Sermons. 

101  102  103  104  105  106  107  108  109  110  111  112      Shakespear's 
Plays. 

113  114    115    116    117    118    119    120    Spectator. 

121  122    Hapless  Orphan. 

123  124    Essays  and  Letters. 

125  126    Adams's  Travels. 

127  Junius 's  Letters. 

128  Gaudentia  de  Lucco. 

129  130    Washington's  Letters. 
131  132    133    134    Knox's  Essays. 


156  INDIANA    LIBRARIES 

135  Beggar  Boy. 

136  137    Daughter  of  Adoption. 
138  139    140    Mysteries  of  Udolpho. 
141  142    143    144    Gil  Bias. 

145  146    147    Dramatic  Miscellanies. 

148  Simple  Story. 

149  150    151    Beggar  Girl. 
152  153    Beauties  of  History. 

154  Vagabond. 

155  Goldsmith's  Roman  History    Abridged. 

156  157    Mahommet's  Travels. 

158  Callipaedia. 

159  Carver's  Travels. 

160  Lectures  on  Female  Education. 

161  162    163    Locke's  Essays. 

164  Goldsmith's  England    Abridged. 

165  Scott's  U.  S.  Gazetteer. 

166  167    Arabian  Nights'  Entertainment. 
168  169    170    Fool  of  Quality. 

171  172    Plain  Sense. 

173  174    175    Abbess. 

176  177    Edward. 

178  Leland  on  Eloquence. 

179  Goldsmith's  Poems. 

180  Man  of  the  World. 

181  Broad  Grins. 

182  Moreau's  Life. 

183  Blair's  Lectures    Abridged. 

184  Modern  Chivalry. 

185  Charlotte  Temple. 

186  Moore's  Utopia. 

187  Joan  of  Arc. 

188  Condorcet's  Life  of  Voltaire. 

189  Robinson  Crusoe. 

190  Juvanal's  Satyrs. 

191  Morse's  Geography  abridged. 

192  193    Dryden's  Poems. 
194  195    Dryden's  Poems. 

196  Malmoth's  Essays. 

197  Military  History. 

198  199    Horace  in  French. 
200  201    Literary  Miscellanies. 

202  203    Introduction  to  the  History  of  Denmark  in  French. 

204  205    206    207    208    Principles  of  Literature  in  French. 

209  Seneca's  Morals. 

210  Curran's  Speeches. 


INDIANA   LIBRARIES  157 

"In  addition  to  the  above  the  board  of  directors  agreeable  to  the 
power  vested  in  them  by  the  company,  have  contracted  with  Mr.  BulHtt 
to  bring  on  a  number  of  new  books  which  are  not  now  in  the  Library,  in 
proportion  to  the  amount  of  their  present  funds,  which  are  as  great  as 
could  have  been  expected." 

The  Library  is  still  in  existence,  but  as  stated  above  we  have  been 
unable  to  obtain  any  report  from  the  present  authorities. 


WABASH. 
The  Carnegie  Library. 

About  fifteen  years  ago  the  question  of  a  public  Library  for  Wabash, 
was  discussed  from  time  to  time,  by  different  citizens,  but  nothing  was 
done  until  the  Round  Table,  a  Hterary  club,  which  has  the  distinction  of 
being  one  of  the  oldest  in  the  state,  took  the  initiative. 

At  a  called  meeting  of  the  club,  held  as  a  memorial  to  Miss  Jessie 
Stitt,  a  charter  member  whose  death  had  occurred  a  short  time  previous, 
a  motion  was  made  that  a  fund  be  raised  to  be  known  as  the  Jessie  Stitt 
memorial  fund,  and  that  this  money  should  form  the  nucleus  for  a  library 
fund.  Immediately  after  this  resolution  was  passed,  the  meeting 
adjourned  and  at  once  went  into  session  as  the  Woman's  Library  Asso- 
ciation. There  were  twenty-four  members  of  this  association  each  of 
whom  was  a  member  of  the  Round  Table. 

After  raising  enough  money  among  themselves  to  make  the  Library 
an  assured  fact  they  fixed  the  membership  fee  at  $1,  and  began  soliciting 
contributions  and  members.  On  January  11,  1890,  the  Woman's  Library 
of  Wabash  was  formally  opened,  with  300  volumes  on  its  shelves. 

In  1900  the  Woman's  Library  Association  was  consolidated  with  the 
high  school  library  and  the  former  passed  out  of  existence,  the  new 
organization  being  known  as  the  Wabash  Public  Library.  The  board  of 
directors,  at  this  time,  consisted  of  the  school  board  and  two  ladies  from 
the  Woman's  Library  Association. 

Eary  in  1901  a  favorable  reply  to  the  numerous  appeals  which  had 
been  made  to  Andrew  Carnegie,  was  received,  and  the  citizens  of  Wabash 
were  made  glad  by  the  announcement  that  Mr.  Carnegie  would  donate  to 
the  city  of  Wabash  $20,000  for  a  Library  edifice.  A  library  board  was  at 
once  organized  under  the  Mummert  law,  and  the  books  of  the  Wabash 


158  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

Public  Library,  then  numbering  more  than  3,000  volumes  were  transferred 
to  the  new  board. 

The  board  of  trustees,  now  in  charge  of  the  Library,  consists  of 
Charles  S.  Haas,  president;  Mrs.  C.  E.  Cowgill,  vice  president;  Mrs.  J. 
1.  Robertson,  secretary;  Mrs.  James  E.  Stitt,  Mrs.  G.  T.  Herrick,  John 
A.  Bruner  and  Warren  Bigler. 

On  April  6,  1903,  the  doors  of  the  handsome  new  Carnegie  Library 
were  opened  to  the  public,  and  since  then  have  been  open  daily  from  12:30 
P.  M.  to  5:30  P.  M.  Three  evenings  each  week  the  Library  is  open  from 
7  P.  M.  to  9  P.  M.  these  evenings  being  Monday,  Wednesday  and  Satur- 
day, and  on  Sunday  afternoons  from  2  p.  m.  to  5  P.  M.  the  reading 
room  is  open. 

On  the  acceptance  of  the  Carnegie  gift  the  city  council  appropriated, 
for  the  maintenance  of  the  institution,  $2,000  annually.  Of  this  sum  it 
is  hoped  to  spend  not  less  than  $500  to  $800,  yearly,  for  books. 

The  Library,  at  the  present  time,  contains  4,628  volumes  which  are 
arranged  on  the  shelves  according  to  the  Dewey  classification.  The  book 
stacks  are  so  placed  in  the  stack-room  that  the  public  has  access 
to  the  shelves. 

The  reading  room  is  supplied  with  the  best  reading  matter,  the  list 
of  periodicals  embracing  thirty-five  of  the  leading  magazines  of 
America  and  Europe. 

For  the  year  1903  the  circulation  of  books  aggregated  17,500,  or  an 
average  of  about  sixty  per  day. 

There  are  now  about  1,600  borrowers.  As  our  population  in  1900  was 
8,618  this  seems  relatively  a  small  number,  but  as  new  readers  are  com- 
ing in  every  day  the  proportion  will  show  a  radical  change  before  the 
close  of  1904. 

Students  of  the  high  school,  who  reside  in  the  county,  enjoy  library 
privileges,  as  the  school  tuition  paid  by  them,  entitles  them  to  draw 
books.  Other  residents  of  the  county  may  hold  borrower's  cards  on  pay- 
ment of  $1  per  year. 

The  work  in  the  Library  is  performed  by  Miss  Henley,  the  librarian. 
An  assistant  looks  after  the  reading  room  on  Sunday  afternoons. 

During  the  ten  years'  existence  of  the  Woman's  Library  association 
Mrs.  C.  E.  Cowgill  was  president  and  and  Mrs.  H.  B.  Shively,  Mrs. 
Emma  Mendenhall  and  Mrs.  Anna  Zeigler,  at  different  times,  served  as 
hbrarian,  giving  their  time  to  the  good  wook,  without  compensation. 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  159 

The  librarian,  from  time  to  time,  arranges  book  lists,  and  bulletins 
to  illustrate  the  same,  on  various  subjects. 

The  children  have  their  own  section  in  the  stack-room,  and  also  one 
alcove  supplied  with  a  low  table  and  small  chairs,  where  their  papers 
and  magazines  are  placed. 

Daisy  Henley,  Librarian. 


WARSAW. 
Warsaw  Public  Library. 

By  special  act  of  the  legislature,  in  1885,  a  free  pubHc  Library  was 
established  in  Warsaw.  Through  donation  and  purchase  a  well  selected 
Library  of  about  7,000  volumes  is  the  result.  The  Warsaw  Public 
Library  owes  much  to  the  energy  of  city  superintendent  John  P.  Mather, 
and  Hon.  W.  D.  Frazer,  for  its  existence  and  development  during  the 
first  year.  The  board  of  education  levies  annually  a  two  mills  tax,  which 
pays  for  the  service  of  an  assistant  two  half-days  each  week,  when  the 
Library  is  open  to  the  public,  and  permits  about  200  volumes  to  be  added 
to  the  shelves  yearly.  Twenty- two  of  the  best  magazines  are  taken, 
and  loaned  out  to  patrons,  being  bound  later  and  added  to  the  shelves. 

The  Library  has  very  poor  quarters  in  the  basement  of  the  old  high 
school  building,  but  it  is  intended  to  be  moved  into  modem  rooms  in  the 
new  high  school  building,  now  being  planned.  The  service  will  then  be 
extended  in  many  ways.  At  present  no  reading  room  is  provided,  the 
sole  work  being  the  loaning  of  books  and  periodicals  for  home  reading. 
A  modification  of  the  decimal  classification  is  in  use,  such  as  is  adapted 
to  the  peculiar  local  conditions.  The  Library  is  supplemented  by  a  case 
of  appropriate  books,  about  100  in  each  school  room  in  the  city.  Special 
attention  is  directed  towards  giving  assistance  to  the  several  reading 
clubs.  During  the  year  1903  the  circulation  was  nearly  14,000— about  300 
volumes  for  each  Wednesday  and  Saturday  afternoon  it  has  been  open  to 
its  patrons.  Noble  Harter,  Supt.,  of  Schools. 


160  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

WASHINGTON. 
Carnegie  Public  Library. 

Washington  was  one  of  the  beneficiaries  of  the  generosities  of  Wil- 
liam Maclure  and  received  one  of  the  Workingmen's  Libraries,  which 
was  maintained  for  nearly  forty  years,  but  went  down  and  the  books 
were  scattered  about  the  time  the  old  township  libraries  went  into  their 
final  repose.  The  selection  of  books  was  excellent,  the  patronage  was 
large  and  the  good  effects  are  apparent  in  the  city  today. 

The  Carnegie  Public  Library  of  Washington,  originated  in  a  sugges- 
tion made  by  the  ladies  of  the  Monday  afternoon  Club.  Acting  upon 
this  suggestion,  a  meeting  of  about  twelve  citizens  was  held  February 
21,  1901,  in  the  office  of  Gardiner  &  Slimp,  and  a  committee  consisting  of 
Rev.  1.  I.  Gorby,  Ezra  Mattingly  and  John  W.  McCarty  was  appointed 
to  corresponded  with  Mr.  Carnegie.  He  responded  promptly  with  an 
offer  of  $15,000,  which  was  later  increased  by  him  to  $20,000.  The  dona- 
tion was  accepted  by  the  city  council,  and  an  annual  income  of  $2,000 
was  guaranteed  by  the  same  body.  Voluntary  subscriptions  by  public 
spirited  citizens  amounted  to  $2,000.  June  14,  1901,  Mr.  Joseph  Cabel 
generously  donated  the  square  on  which  the  building  now  stands,  for  the 
joint  purpose  of  a  lot  for  the  Library,  and  a  public  park. 

In  accordance  with  the  provisions  of  an  act  of  the  general  assembly 
of  1901,  a  hbrary  board  of  seven  members  was  appointed.  Wm.  R. 
Gardiner,  president;  Ezra  Mattingly,  secretary;  John  W.  McCarty,  Ham- 
let Allen,  Mrs.  Mary  Shirley,  Mrs.  Alice  Corning  and  Mrs.  Austin  Cabel. 
In  April,  Mrs.  Annie  H.  Gibson  was  elected  librarian. 

The  building  was  completed  and  the  Library  opened  to  the  public  on 
February  21,  1903,  with  2,300  books  on  the  shelves.  During  the  year 
1,875  volumes  were  added.    The  Dewey  classification  is  being  used. 

The  bulletin  in  the  children's  room  is  made  attractive  and  instructive 
by  the  use  of  good  prints,  illustrating  themes  peculiar  to  the  season, 
important  events  and  eminent  people.  Juvenile  books  are  easy  of  access 
and  open  shelves  are  accorded  to  all.  Five  days  in  the  week  the  Library 
hours  are  from  12  M.  to  9  P.  M. ;  on  Saturdays  from  9  A.  M.  to  9  P.  M. , 
and  Sundays  the  reading  rooms  only  are  open  from  1:30  P.  M.  to  4:30  P. 
M. 

The  population  of  the  city  is  10,000.  Washington  township  con- 
tributes by  tax  and  the  people  of  the  township  have  the  same  rights  to 


INDIANA    LIBRARIES  161 

the  use  of  the  books  as  those  of  the  city.  The  number  of  borrowers  at 
present  is  1,400.  The  number  of  books  issued  in  the  253  days  the  Library 
has  been  open  is  16,093,  making  the  average  daily  circulation  about  sixty- 
seven. 

Mrs.  Thos.  Ackley,  Mrs.  M.  J.  Carnahan,  Mrs.  Emma  B.  Hyatt, 
Mrs.  Ezra  B.  Mattingly,  Mrs.  T.  B.  Graham,  Mrs.  J.  H.  O'Neal,  Mrs. 
J.  T.  Neal  and  Mrs.  M.  S.  Hastings  constitute  an  advisary  board.  They 
take  charge  of  the  Library  on  Sunday  afternoon,  serving,  each  in  turn, 
caring  for  the  bulletin,  and  helping  in  every  way  to  make  the  Library 
an  attractive,  pleasant  place. 


WESTFIELD. 
Westfield  Public  Library. 

The  Westfield  Public  Library  of  Westfield,  Indiana,  owes  its  incep- 
tion to  two  Woman's  clubs,  the  members  of  which  in  June,  1900,  resolved 
to  establish  a  Library  and  reading  room.  The  first  step  taken  was  to 
interest  the  different  organizations  in  the  town  in  the  enterprise  and  a 
representative  from  each  church,  club  and  lodge  met  to  consider  the 
advisability  of  such  an  undertaking. 

The  result  was  that  a  library  association  was  formed,  with  a  fee  of 
$1.00.  The  work  of  raising  funds  began,  but  it  was  not  an  easy  matter, 
for  the  majority  of  the  citizens  had  little  faith  in  the  movement,  con- 
sidered it  a  *  'fad' '  which  would  soon  die.  However,  forty  determined, 
energetic  women  stood  behind  it  and  a  half-dozen  substantial  men  came 
to  their  assistance  and  worked  diligently  for  its  success.  Almost  every 
honest  device  for  making  money  was  resorted  to,  from  musicales  to 
rumage  sales:  a  book-shower  was  advertised  and  books  and  money  were 
personally  solicited. 

On  January  11,  1901,  the  Library  was  opened  with  over  700  volumes. 
Lack  of  funds  made  it  impossible  to  employ  a  trained  librarian  but  Miss 
Merica  Hoagland,  library  organizer,  assisted  in  organizing  and  classify- 
ing the  Library  according  to  the  Dewey  decimal  classification  and  aided 
the  workers  in  such  a  manner  that  the  work  was  placed  on  a  firm  foun- 
dation so  that  it  could  be  carried  on  according  to  the  latest  and  most 
approved  methods.  The  town  board  donated  $50.00  per  annum  the  first 
two  years;  this  was  the  first  substantial  assistance  the  association 
received. 


162  INDIANA   LIBRARIES 

In  April,  1902,  the  Library  was  re-organized  under  the  state  library 
law,  which  made  it  a  township  library  with  a  tax  income  of  $446  per 
annum. 

A  year  ago  the  library  board  purchased  a  good  lot  on  which  stands  a 
small  cottage.  This  was  converted  into  a  library  building  and  reading 
room  and  the  amount  formerly  paid  for  rent  was  used  in  paying  for  the 
property. 

The  Library  has  been  free  to  the  township  from  the  first  and  more 
than  half  of  the  600  borrowers'  cards  issued  have  gone  to  those  living 
outside  of  the  town  corporation. 

The  Library  is  open  six  afternoons  and  evenings  in  the  week.  The 
public  has  access  to  the  shelves  and  the  daily  average  of  books 
taken  out  the  first  year  was  a  fraction  less  than  twenty  a  day.  At 
present  there  are  1,000  volumes,  and  sixteen  periodicals  are  on  the 
tables.  The  needs  of  the  schools  and  work  done  by  the  clubs  are  taken 
into  consideration,  as  far  as  practical,  in  the  selection  of  books. 

The  members  of  the  library  board  are:  Mrs.  Julia  S.  Conklin,  presi- 
dent; Mrs.  Thomas  T.  Bray,  secretary;  Dr.  Z.  H.  Fodrea,  treasurer;  Eli 
Stalker,  R.  E.  Funderburgh,  Mrs.  Edith  Hinshaw,  Mrs.  Rebecca  C. 
Roberts,  P.  A.  Bray  and  W.  C.  McAvoy,  most  of  whom  have  been  act- 
ively identified  with  the  work  from  the  organization. 

Ida  M.  Roberts  has  served  as  librarian  from  the  time  of  organiza- 
tion, having  in  the  meantime  attended  two  short  courses  in  library 
training. 

Although  Westfield  is  a  town  of  less  than  1,000  inhabitants  it  is  the 
only  town  in  the  county  to  organize  and  maintain  a  free  public  library, 
independent  of  the  public  school.  To  do  this  has  required  the  untiring 
efforts  of  those  interested,  but  the  steady  growth  in  interest  and  use  of 
the  Library  has  proved  that  the  efforts  have  in  no  sense  been  in  vain. 
The  prospect  of  help  from  Mr.  Carnegie  in  the  near  future  is  also 
encouraging. 


ZIONSVILLE. 
ZiONSViLLE  Public  Library. 
Notwithstanding  our  repeated  solicitations  from  the  authorities  for 
historical  sketch,  we  are  unable  to  secure   any  information  concerning 
this  Library. 


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Names  OF  Libraries  From  Which  We  Have  No  Reports. 

Angola  Tri-State  Normal  Library. 

Car m  el  Public  Library. 

Charlestown  Public  Library. 

Columbia  City  Public  Library. 

Decatur  Public  Library. 

Farmland  Public  Library. 

Flora  Public  Library. 

Greensburg  Public  Library. 

Hartford  City  Public  Library. 

Jasper-Jasper  College  Library. 

Jasper-St.  Joseph's  College  Library. 

Lafayette-Purdue  University  Library. 

Madison  Public  Library. 

Marling-Maclure  Library. 

Merom-Union  Christian  College  Library. 

New  Carlisle  Public  Library. 

North  Manchester-Manchester  College  Library. 

Oldenburg-Oldenburg  College  Library. 

Orland-Joyce  Public  Library. 

Pennville  Public  Library. 

Plymouth  Public  Library. 

Princeton  Public  Library. 

Rochester  Public  Library. 

St.  Mary's-St.  Mary's  of  the  Woods  Library. 

Uniontown-Maclure  Library. 

Upland-Taylor  University  Library. 

Valparaiso  Public  Library. 

Vincennes  Public  Library. 

Vincennes-Vincennes  University  Library. 

Walkerton  Public  Library. 

Warren  Public  Library. 

Westville  Public  Library. 

Winchester  Public  Library. 

Zionsville  PubHc  Library. 


14  DAY  USE 


RETURN  TO  DESK  FROM  WHICH  BORROWED 


This  book  is  due  on  the  last  date  stamped  below,  or 

on  the  date  to  which  renewed. 

Renewed  books  are  subject  to  immediate  recall. 


0EC17195S 

MAR  3     1962 

MAR  1 1  1964 

General  Library 
LD  21-50m-8,'57                                  University  of  California 

(.C8481sl0)476                                                  Berkeley 

